the haves; those who have
Set phrase contrasting with 持たざる者 (the have-nots). Often used in discussions of wealth, privilege, or resources.
Antonyms: 持たざる者
The gap between the haves and the have-nots is widening.
He spoke about the responsibility of those who have.
Standard kanji form for this set phrase.
Kana spelling of the verb part; less common but readable.
From 持てる (potential form of 持つ, 'to have') + 者 ('person'). The phrase is a calque from English 'the haves'.