Old Testament
Proverbs 20:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Do not love sleep, or you will become poor. Keep your eyes open, and you will have plenty of bread.
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Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.
What Proverbs 20:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns against the dangers of excessive sleep and laziness. It suggests that if one loves to sleep too much, they may end up in poverty due to a lack of effort and productivity. Instead, the verse encourages being alert and active, implying that diligence and hard work lead to abundance and satisfaction. The metaphor of keeping one's eyes open symbolizes being aware and engaged in life, which is essential for achieving success and securing one's needs. The message is clear: prioritize work and responsibility over idleness to ensure a stable and prosperous life.
How to apply Proverbs 20:13 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on maintaining a balanced lifestyle that prioritizes productivity. Set goals for your daily tasks and avoid procrastination. By being proactive and engaged in your work, you can achieve financial stability and personal satisfaction.
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 20:13 mean?
Proverbs 20:13 warns against the dangers of excessive sleep and laziness. It suggests that loving sleep too much can lead to poverty, while being alert and active can lead to abundance and satisfaction.
What is the meaning of 'love not sleep' in Proverbs 20:13?
'Love not sleep' in Proverbs 20:13 means that one should not prioritize sleep or idleness over work. It emphasizes the importance of being diligent and engaged in order to avoid financial hardship.
How can I apply Proverbs 20:13 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 20:13, focus on setting daily goals and avoiding procrastination. By being proactive and engaged in your responsibilities, you can work towards financial security and personal satisfaction.
What themes are present in Proverbs 20:13?
The themes in Proverbs 20:13 include diligence, hard work, the consequences of laziness, awareness, prosperity, and responsibility. These themes highlight the importance of being active and engaged in life to achieve success.
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