Old Testament
Proverbs 24:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the speaker observes the field of a lazy person and the vineyard of someone who lacks wisdom.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
I went by the field of the lazy person, and by the vineyard of the man lacking understanding;
I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker observes the field of a lazy person and the vineyard of someone who lacks wisdom. The imagery of a neglected field and vineyard symbolizes the consequences of laziness and poor decision-making. The lazy person fails to cultivate their land, leading to unproductive results. This observation serves as a warning about the dangers of sloth and ignorance. It highlights the importance of diligence and understanding in achieving success and maintaining one's responsibilities. The verse encourages readers to reflect on their own work ethic and the state of their endeavors, reminding them that neglect can lead to ruin. By contrasting the diligent with the lazy, it emphasizes that hard work and wisdom are essential for prosperity and fulfillment in life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 24:30 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our own habits and attitudes towards work. It reminds us that neglecting our responsibilities can lead to negative outcomes. By cultivating diligence and seeking understanding, we can avoid the pitfalls of laziness and achieve our goals more effectively.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 24:30 mean?
Proverbs 24:30 describes the observation of a lazy person's neglected field and a foolish man's vineyard. It illustrates the consequences of laziness and lack of wisdom, serving as a warning about the importance of diligence and understanding in achieving success.
What is the meaning of laziness in Proverbs 24:30?
In Proverbs 24:30, laziness refers to the failure to take responsibility for one's work and the neglect of important tasks. This neglect leads to unproductive outcomes, emphasizing that hard work is essential for prosperity.
How does Proverbs 24:30 apply to daily life?
Proverbs 24:30 encourages individuals to reflect on their habits and attitudes towards work. It reminds us that neglecting responsibilities can lead to negative consequences, urging us to cultivate diligence and seek understanding.
What lessons can we learn from Proverbs 24:30?
From Proverbs 24:30, we learn that laziness and lack of understanding can result in failure and unfulfilled potential. The verse teaches the importance of hard work and wisdom in achieving our goals and maintaining responsibilities.

The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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