Old Testament
Proverbs 19:24
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A lazy person hides his hand in his bosom and will not even bring it back to his mouth.
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A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
What Proverbs 19:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs highlights the behavior of a lazy person. It uses the imagery of someone who is so unwilling to work that they won't even lift their hand to feed themselves. The act of hiding one's hand in their bosom symbolizes a refusal to take action or make an effort. This laziness leads to a lack of productivity and ultimately to hunger or need. The verse serves as a warning against the dangers of slothfulness, emphasizing that inactivity can have serious consequences. It suggests that one must be diligent and proactive in their efforts to achieve their goals and meet their needs. In a broader sense, it encourages individuals to take responsibility for their lives and not rely on others to fulfill their basic needs. The underlying message is that hard work and effort are essential for success and well-being, while laziness can lead to missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.
How to apply Proverbs 19:24 to your life
To avoid the pitfalls of laziness, set small, achievable goals each day. Break tasks into manageable steps and hold yourself accountable. Remember that consistent effort leads to progress, and taking initiative is key to personal and professional success.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
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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 19:24 mean?
Proverbs 19:24 illustrates the behavior of a lazy person who is so unwilling to work that they won't even lift their hand to feed themselves. It serves as a warning about the consequences of slothfulness and emphasizes the importance of taking action to meet one's needs.
What is the meaning of laziness in Proverbs 19:24?
In Proverbs 19:24, laziness is depicted as a refusal to take action, symbolized by hiding one's hand in the bosom. This behavior leads to unproductiveness and can result in hunger or need, highlighting the importance of diligence.
How does Proverbs 19:24 apply to daily life?
Proverbs 19:24 applies to daily life by reminding us to avoid laziness and take initiative in our tasks. Setting small, achievable goals and holding ourselves accountable can help us stay productive and meet our responsibilities.
What lessons can we learn from Proverbs 19:24?
From Proverbs 19:24, we learn that inactivity can lead to missed opportunities and unmet needs. The verse teaches the value of hard work and the importance of being self-sufficient in achieving our goals.
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