Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 22:16

"He that oppresseth the poor to increase his [gain], [And] he that giveth to the rich, [shall come] only to want." — Proverbs 22:16 (ASV)

He that oppresseth the poor ... —Rather, he that does so is (thereby) giving to the rich, only to (his own) loss. That is, he will be no better for the act of oppression, but will have to disgorge his prey to someone richer and more powerful than himself, and thereby be reduced to poverty.