Proverbs 22:21

Proverbs 22:21, in plain English

Solomon is explaining that he's teaching you reliable, proven truth so you'll have solid answers when people question what you believe or ask you to account for your faith.

Why it's here

You're in a wisdom classroom where a young person is being trained to represent themselves and their values well in front of others—whether that's in business, at court, or in community settings. Getting your answers right matters because your credibility is on the line.

Who's speaking

Solomon, the wise teacher, speaking to his student

Where it sits in the story

This fits into the larger arc of Proverbs where wisdom isn't just personal—it's about being equipped to stand firm and speak truthfully in a world that constantly pressures you to compromise. It echoes back to why God values a reliable witness.

The scholarly reading

This verse concludes the prologue's purpose statement: the teachings provide reliable, truthful instruction so that students can give trustworthy answers to whoever sent them—whether parents, employers, or patrons.

Language and setting

In ancient Near Eastern education, young men were sent by their families or patrons to acquire wisdom that would enable them to represent their benefactors credibly in public discourse and negotiation. The ability to give 'sound answers' (literally, 'return words of truth') was essential social capital in a hierarchical society where one's reliability determined one's advancement.

Voice

The wisdom teacher, identified in Proverbs 1:1 as Solomon, though likely compiled by later scribal tradents during the postexilic period.

Significance

This fits within the sapential tradition's larger arc—the conviction that God's created order can be discerned through observation and instruction, equipping God's people to flourish within the covenant community and gain favor with both human and divine authorities.

19So that your trust may be in the LORD, I instruct you today—yes, you.

20Have I not written for you thirty sayings about counsel and knowledge,

21to show you true and reliable words, that you may soundly answer those who sent you?

22Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate,

23for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them.

Read all of Proverbs 22 — A good name is more desirable than great riches. Train up a child in the way he should go. Proverbs that have shaped civilizations.