Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. - Proverbs 22:1 NLT

Proverbs 22:1 says, "A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold." This verse speaks to the importance of integrity and reputation, emphasizing that having a good name—meaning being known for one’s character and virtue—is of greater value than material wealth. Solomon, who is traditionally credited with writing much of Proverbs, highlights the lasting worth of a good reputation, which far exceeds the temporary benefits of wealth or riches.

Authorship and Speaker

Authorship: Proverbs is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, known for his wisdom. This collection of sayings offers practical guidance on how to live a life that honors God, emphasizing themes of wisdom, integrity, and moral living.

Speaker: Solomon is the speaker in this verse, offering wisdom to those who seek to live righteously. His focus here is on the value of a good name and the importance of maintaining integrity.

Linguistic Analysis, Interpretation, and Etymology

"Good name" (Hebrew: שֵׁם - shem): Refers to one’s reputation, character, or standing in the community. In Hebrew culture, a person’s name was closely associated with their identity and moral integrity. A "good name" signifies a life of virtue, honesty, and righteousness.

"Desirable" (Hebrew: בָּחַר - bachar): Means to choose or prefer. Solomon uses this term to highlight that a good name should be chosen or sought after more than material riches.

"Esteemed" (Hebrew: חֵן - chen): Refers to being held in favor, respect, or good standing. To be esteemed is to be regarded highly by others because of one’s character and actions.

"Silver or gold" (Hebrew: כֶּסֶף - keseph, זָהָב - zahav): Refers to material wealth or riches. In this context, Solomon contrasts the temporary nature of wealth with the lasting impact of a good name.

Exploration of Text

In Proverbs 22:1, Solomon contrasts the value of a good reputation with the pursuit of material wealth. His wisdom teaches that a person’s character and reputation are more valuable than riches, which can be fleeting. While wealth may bring temporary benefits, a good name lasts beyond one’s lifetime and carries a deeper impact.

"A good name" in this context refers to one’s reputation—how a person is viewed by others in terms of their integrity, honesty, and moral conduct. In Hebrew culture, a person’s name was not just a label but a representation of their character and identity. A good name was a reflection of a life lived with integrity, which earned respect and trust from others. Solomon teaches that this kind of respect is far more valuable than wealth, which can come and go.

The idea of being "esteemed" is also significant. Solomon points out that it is better to be esteemed—respected and held in high regard—than to possess great wealth. Esteem comes not from riches but from how a person treats others and the choices they make in life. A person who lives with honesty, humility, and kindness earns the respect of others, and this respect is more lasting and meaningful than the temporary allure of wealth.

The contrast between a good name and wealth also highlights the fleeting nature of material possessions. While silver and gold may bring comfort and security for a time, they are ultimately temporary. A good name, built on a foundation of integrity, lasts beyond a lifetime and leaves a legacy that money cannot buy.

This verse is a call to prioritize character and integrity over the pursuit of wealth. It reminds believers that while wealth can provide for physical needs, it is character that earns lasting respect and favor. A life lived with integrity not only benefits the individual but also leaves a positive impact on the community and generations to come.

Cultural Context for Today

In today’s culture, there is often a strong emphasis on accumulating wealth, status, and material success. Many people measure their worth by what they own or how much money they make. Proverbs 22:1 challenges this mindset, reminding us that true value is found in character and reputation, not in wealth. A person may be financially successful, but if their name is associated with dishonesty or corruption, their riches mean little in the long run.

This verse speaks to the importance of living a life that reflects integrity and moral strength, even in a world that often prioritizes financial gain over ethical behavior. In business, relationships, and personal life, a good reputation is invaluable. People are often judged not by how much money they have but by how they treat others, whether they keep their word, and whether they act with integrity.

In a society where quick success and shortcuts to wealth are often glorified, Solomon’s wisdom reminds us that character is built over time and cannot be bought. The respect and trust that come with a good name are earned through consistent, ethical behavior. While wealth can be lost or stolen, a good name endures and brings true honor.

This verse also offers a challenge to those who may feel pressured to compromise their integrity in order to achieve success. Solomon teaches that no amount of wealth is worth sacrificing one’s reputation. In the end, a life of integrity and honesty brings more lasting fulfillment than riches ever could.

Application and Reflection

  • Teaching Point: A good name—built on integrity, honesty, and moral character—is more valuable than material wealth. True success is measured not by how much we have but by how we are regarded by others based on our actions and choices.
  • Questions for Reflection:
    1. Are there areas of your life where you are tempted to prioritize wealth or success over maintaining your integrity? How can you refocus on building a good name that reflects your values and character?
    2. What steps can you take today to cultivate a reputation of honesty and respect in your relationships and community?

Practically Picking Up Your Sword

  • Invest in Character, Not Just Wealth: Take time to reflect on how your actions and choices are shaping your reputation. Make decisions based on integrity rather than short-term gains or financial success.
  • Seek to Build Relationships Based on Trust: In your interactions with others, prioritize honesty, kindness, and respect. Recognize that a good name is earned through how you treat others, not through material possessions.
  • Be Mindful of Your Legacy: Consider how you want to be remembered—not for what you had, but for how you lived. Commit to living in such a way that your name will be associated with integrity, kindness, and faithfulness to God’s principles.