Devine Scripture

Proverbs 3:24

What does Proverbs 3:24 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 3:24 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 3:24 means

This verse extends the promise of security to the private sphere of rest, assuring that one who lives wisely will experience tranquil and sweet sleep, free from anxiety or fear. 'When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid' speaks to peace of mind, while 'thy sleep shall be sweet' signifies deep, refreshing rest. This highlights wisdom's holistic benefit, touching even the subconscious and ensuring restful rejuvenation, a stark contrast to the unrest of the wicked.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: Yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: Yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

When you take your rest you will have no fear, and on your bed sleep will be sweet to you.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

If thou liest down, thou art not afraid, Yea, thou hast lain down, And sweet hath been thy sleep.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

If thou sleep, thou shalt not fear: thou shalt rest, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

when thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid, but thou shalt lie down and thy sleep shall be sweet.

Context

This verse continues the theme of security and peace, extending it from the waking hours to the time of rest. It logically follows the promise of secure walking in verse 23 by addressing nighttime fears and anxieties. This specific mention of peaceful sleep underscores wisdom's profound impact on one's overall well-being and inner tranquility, setting the stage for a broader promise of freedom from fear in challenging circumstances.

v.23Then shalt thou walk in thy way securely, And thy foot shall not stumble.

v.24This passage

v.25Be not afraid of sudden fear, Neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Job 11:19

    Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid; Yea, many shall make suit unto thee.

  • Proverbs 6:22

    When thou walkest, it shall lead thee; When thou sleepest, it shall watch over thee; And when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.

  • Psalms 4:8

    In peace will I both lay me down and sleep; For thou, Jehovah, alone makest me dwell in safety.

  • Psalms 127:2

    It is vain for you to rise up early, To take rest late, To eat the bread of toil; Forso he giveth unto his beloved sleep.

  • Jeremiah 31:26

    Upon this I awaked, and beheld; and my sleep was sweet unto me.

  • Ezekiel 34:15

    I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord Jehovah.

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