Proverbs 22:1 Meaning: What Is a Good Name Worth?
A good name is more desirable than great riches, and loving favor is better than silver and gold.
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Agoodname is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favor rather than silver and gold.
A name is chosen rather than much wealth, Than silver and than gold--good grace.
A [good] name is rather to be chosen than great riches; loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Meaning in one sentence
What does 'a good name' mean in Proverbs 22:1? Discover the value of reputation and favor over wealth in this wisdom passage.
Context
Proverbs 22 stands among the collected sayings of Solomon, each one holding a mirror to everyday choices. The verses around this one touch on wealth and poverty, prudence and danger, humility and honor. In verse 1, the writer makes a quiet but revolutionary claim: the thing worth wanting most is not money. It is a name that carries weight and a grace that opens doors. This sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, which repeatedly asks where we place our trust and what we value most deeply.
Key Words
The Hebrew word for name is shem. In this verse it stands on its own, without the word good, because in ancient thought a name already carried the idea of reputation. Your name summed up your character, your word, your place among others. It was what people trusted or doubted. The word for favor is chen, often translated grace or charm. It is not about being liked for surface reasons; it describes the quality that draws goodwill from God and wise people. And the verb behind chosen (nivchar) appears in a form that means something is to be deliberately selected over other options. The verse is calling for a conscious choice: this path, not that one. Every day we decide what we will reach for.
How Christians Read This Verse
Matthew Henry taught that a good name supposes a man wise and honest, while Adam Clarke noted that character will support a man where riches cannot. John Gill pointed out that loving favor may be understood as grace from God, which is better than silver and gold. The Cambridge Bible connects this verse to Ecclesiastes 7:1, where a good name is compared to fine perfume. Across traditions, Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox, Christians agree: this proverb draws a line between what passes and what lasts, inviting us to set our hearts on enduring treasure.
A common misunderstanding
Some assume a good name means being famous or well liked by everyone. In fact, the Hebrew word shem points to a reputation for integrity, not popularity. And loving favor is not about being charming; it means finding acceptance with God and the wise. The proverb is not about worldly fame but about a life built on honesty and grace.
Living This Out
You might face a choice this week: make an extra dollar by cutting a corner, or preserve your name by telling the truth. The verse says the truth is worth more. A reputation is built one small decision at a time. When you choose what is honest over what is profitable, you are investing in something silver cannot buy. That is the quiet wisdom of this proverb.
Main takeaway: A good reputation and God’s favor are worth more than all the wealth in the world.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
A good name means people know you tell the truth and are kind. That is better than having lots of toys.
For ages 9, 12
This proverb says it is better to have a good reputation than to be rich. Your name is what people think of when they hear your name. You can lose money, but your character stays with you. So work on being honest and kind. That treasure never fades.
Questions People Ask
What does 'a good name' mean in Proverbs 22:1?
In the original Hebrew, the word is simply 'name' (shem), which by itself implies a good reputation. It refers to your character, integrity, and the trust others have in you. Unlike fame, which focuses on being known, a good name focuses on being known as trustworthy and wise.
How is 'loving favor' different from being popular?
The Hebrew word 'chen' means grace, favor, or charm. It is not about superficial popularity but about being held in esteem by God and by people of good judgment. It is the kind of regard that comes from living with honesty, kindness, and humility.
Does this verse mean we should never want money?
No. The verse does not condemn wealth; it compares it to something even more valuable. Great riches bring temporary security, but a good name and God's favor last beyond this life. The proverb urges us to prioritize character over cash, not to reject money entirely.
What does the original Hebrew say that English translations miss?
The Hebrew word 'nivchar' (chosen) is a passive participle, meaning 'is to be chosen' or 'is preferable.' The verse is a comparison of value, not a command. Also, 'name' alone implies 'good name' in Hebrew culture, so the word 'good' is supplied but already understood.
For pastors & researchers
Hebrew interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study