Proverbs 13:4
What does Proverbs 13:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 13:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 13:4 means
Proverbs 13:4 contrasts two approaches to life and their outcomes. The "sluggard" desires success or comfort but is unwilling to put in the effort, leading to emptiness and lack. Their longing remains unfulfilled because their actions do not align with their aspirations. In stark contrast, the "diligent" individual applies themselves diligently to their work and responsibilities. This active and persistent effort results in prosperity and abundance, depicted as their "soul being made rich." The verse emphasizes that true fulfillment and success are not merely wished for but are earned through sincere and consistent application, highlighting the direct link between effort and reward.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
KJV
King James Version · 1611The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The hater of work does not get his desires, but the soul of the hard workers will be made fat.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862The soul of the slothful is desiring, and hath not. And the soul of the diligent is made fat.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752The sluggard willeth, and willeth not: but the soul of them that work, shall be made fat.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890A sluggard's soul desireth and hath nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Context
Proverbs 13 generally presents a series of moral contrasts, often between the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Verse 4 fits seamlessly into this pattern by contrasting the sluggard and the diligent, specifically in the context of their outcomes regarding wealth and satisfaction. Preceding verses discuss the value of speech and the consequences of actions, while subsequent verses continue to explore themes of wisdom, integrity, and their impact on one's life and legacy. This verse serves as a direct and practical application of the broader wisdom being imparted throughout the chapter, advocating for hard work over idleness.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Numbers 23:10
Who can count the dust of Jacob, Or number the fourth part of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, And let my last end be like his!
- Proverbs 11:25
The liberal soul shall be made fat; And he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
- John 6:27
Work not for the food which perisheth, but for the food which abideth unto eternal life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him the Father, even God, hath sealed.
- 2 Peter 1:5
Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;
- Proverbs 28:25
He that is of a greedy spirit stirreth up strife; But he that putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
- Psalms 92:14
They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; They shall be full of sap and green:
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