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Proverbs 11:25
“The liberal soul shall be made rich. He who waters shall be watered himself.”
This verse is part of the book of Proverbs, a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature. It offers short, memorable sayings intended to guide people in living wisely and ethically. This particular proverb speaks about the consequences of generosity.
What kind of generosity, beyond just financial, might 'water' others in a way that truly enriches both the giver and the receiver?
Then — the setting
Proverbs was compiled over centuries, reflecting wisdom passed down in ancient Israel, likely from the tenth to the fourth centuries BCE. Its original audience was primarily young men of the upper classes, being educated for leadership, though its principles were broadly applicable. The 'liberal soul' (or 'generous person') in this context wasn't about political ideology but about a generous disposition, particularly in giving resources or aid. The imagery of 'watering' draws from an agrarian society where water was essential for life and growth, making it a vivid metaphor for providing sustenance and refreshment.
Across the Testaments
This proverb from the Old Testament sets forth a wisdom principle: generosity leads to personal enrichment. The New Testament affirms and deepens this idea, often shifting the focus from material gain to spiritual blessing or a more nuanced understanding of 'return.' While Proverbs suggests a direct, often material, reciprocation ('shall be made rich,' 'shall be watered himself'), the New Testament, especially in Jesus' teachings (e.g., Luke 6:38, Matthew 6:19-21) and Paul's letters (e.g., 2 Corinthians 9:6-8), also emphasizes the spiritual rewards, the laying up of heavenly treasures, and God's abundant provision as the source of ability to continue giving. The principle of generosity remains central, but the nature of the 'return' is sometimes expanded beyond immediate, tangible benefits.
Keep thinking
Read alongside it
This New Testament passage echoes the principle of sowing and reaping generosity, linking it to divine provision.
Jesus' beatitude, 'Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy,' reflects a similar principle of reciprocal blessing.
This proverb reinforces the idea that helping the poor leads to personal blessing, while withholding aid brings curses.
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