This Proverb says, “The rich man is wise in his own eyes, but the poor who has understanding sees through him.” Being wealthy does not give a person wisdom and understanding. Rather, it would more likely make a person proud. Such a person may wrongly think that this wealth was the result of their own wisdom. They may wrongly believe that it was their abilities that caused the wealth. They would probably not realize that God is the source of their prosperity. They may not even believe that God exists. They would therefore be wise in their own eyes. However, the Bible would characterize them as fools.
On the other hand, a poor person may be very wise. They may well believe in God and seek to be obedient to God. In so doing God will grant them wisdom and understanding. They will realize what is important in life. They understand that physical wealth will not bring them closer to God. Physical wealth will not give them wisdom. They understand what is valuable and what is not. They are content with their simple life, as God provides for them the physical things that they need. It is far better to be a poor person with wisdom than a rich and foolish person.
