What does Proverbs 29:7 mean?

In Scripture, the word "poor" often means more than simply a lack of money. The Hebrew root word dal implies weakness, being low, powerlessness, and so forth. This contrasts with those enabled or supported, especially those in power. God demonstrates care for the weak and poor (Proverbs 14:31; 21:13) and expects those who follow Him to do the same (Matthew 25:34–40; Proverbs 22:22; 31:8–9; Psalm 41:1). Just as being "poor" can involve more than money, caring for such people extends to more than charity. It also includes working for "justice" (Proverbs 18:5) by advocating for what is fair and true. Lack of concern for disadvantaged people is a sign of wickedness (Proverbs 12:26; 28:5, 15).

The apostle James' readers were persecuted and, in many cases, robbed of property and possessions. That even occurred in the case of cruel landowners who cheated and lied to avoid paying the people they'd hired. He writes: "Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you" (James 5:4–6).