no matter how we translate it

Proverbs 22:22-23

Don’t rob the poor just because you can,

    or exploit the needy in court.

For the Lord is their defender.

    He will ruin anyone who ruins them. (NLT)




Do not exploit the poor because they are poor

    and do not crush the needy in court,

for the Lord will take up their case

    and will exact life for life. (NIV)



Do not rob the poor, because he is poor,

    or crush the afflicted at the gate,
for the Lord will plead their cause
    and rob of life those who rob them. (ESV)



It is easy to steal from the poor,

     but don’t do it.

And don’t take advantage of them in court.

The Lord is on their side.

     He supports the poor,

     and he will take from those who take from them. (ERV)




Do not cheat poor people just because they are vulnerable

    or use shady tactics in court to crush those already suffering;

For the Eternal is ready to take their case,

    and He ruins anyone who is out to ruin them. (The Voice)



Don’t walk on the poor just because they’re poor,

    and don’t use your position to crush the weak,

Because God will come to their defense;

    the life you took, he’ll take from you and give back to them. (The Message)




No matter how we translate it or paraphrase it, it always comes out the same...

We don't need to abuse, use, or neglect the poor.

Because if we do, bad things will happen to us.

In view of our present thinking about the poor in this country, we in for a serious butt kickin'