Old Testament
Proverbs 13:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The soul of the sluggard desires but has nothing, while the soul of the diligent will be richly satisfied.
Compare translations
The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
What Proverbs 13:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse contrasts two types of people: the sluggard and the diligent. The sluggard is someone who is lazy and desires many things but does not put in the effort to achieve them, resulting in emptiness and lack. In contrast, the diligent person works hard and is committed to their goals. As a result, they find fulfillment and satisfaction in their efforts. The verse highlights the importance of hard work and perseverance, suggesting that those who are willing to put in the effort will reap the rewards. It serves as a reminder that desire alone is not enough; action is necessary to achieve success and satisfaction in life. This principle can be applied to various areas, including work, education, and personal growth, emphasizing that diligence leads to abundance while laziness leads to lack.
How to apply Proverbs 13:4 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on setting clear goals and working diligently towards them. Avoid procrastination and laziness, as they lead to unfulfilled desires. Instead, cultivate a strong work ethic and take consistent action to achieve your aspirations, knowing that hard work brings satisfaction.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 13:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 13:4
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 13:4 mean?
Proverbs 13:4 contrasts the lazy person, or sluggard, who desires many things but achieves nothing, with the diligent person who works hard and finds satisfaction. It emphasizes that effort is necessary to fulfill desires and achieve success.
What is the meaning of diligence in Proverbs 13:4?
In Proverbs 13:4, diligence refers to the consistent effort and hard work put into achieving goals. The verse suggests that those who are diligent will experience fulfillment and abundance, unlike the sluggard who remains unfulfilled.
How can I apply Proverbs 13:4 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 13:4, set clear goals and commit to working hard towards them. Avoid procrastination and take consistent action, understanding that your efforts will lead to fulfillment and success.
What does the sluggard represent in Proverbs 13:4?
In Proverbs 13:4, the sluggard represents a person who is lazy and fails to take action towards their desires. This character serves as a warning that without effort, one will not achieve their goals or find satisfaction.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.