What does Proverbs 27:10 mean?

Solomon's point here (Proverbs 25:1) is not that we should ignore family. Taken as a whole, the lesson is that we should not depend on blood relatives simply because they are blood relatives. Friends and neighbors can be just as helpful in a crisis. In fact, it's possible for friendships to become closer than family ties (Proverbs 17:17). Rather than look to relatives who are distant—physically or emotionally—we should first rely on those around us.

The second half of this proverb seems to be an expression in and of itself. That makes this verse almost a "proverb within a proverb," where Solomon cites a known turn of phrase to emphasize his point. Blood relationships have obvious meaning, but the real measure of a relationship is in love, not simply birth. Scripture includes several examples and lessons emphasizing this (Luke 8:20–21; 1 Samuel 18:1).

We are commanded to love our neighbor as ourselves. In our busy lives we may not take time to cultivate the kind of friendship that is loving, but everyone needs to be a good neighbor and to have a good neighbor. Unfortunately, in crowded cities many people cannot even name their next-door neighbor. Second Kings 4:1–7 relates the story of the desperate plight of the widow of one of the sons of the prophets. She was deeply in debt and had nothing but a jar of oil. At Elisha's directive, she borrowed containers from her neighbors. She poured oil from her jar into these and they filled with oil, which she could sell to pay off her debts. Apparently, the widow enjoyed a good relationship with her close neighbors.