Old Testament
Proverbs 24:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
and it was completely overgrown with thorns, and nettles covered its surface, and its stone wall was broken down.
Compare translations
And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.
What Proverbs 24:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs illustrates the consequences of neglect and laziness. It describes a field that has become overgrown with thorns and nettles, indicating that without care and attention, even something once valuable can fall into disrepair. The broken stone wall symbolizes a lack of protection and security. This imagery serves as a warning about the importance of diligence and the need to actively maintain our responsibilities, whether they be in our personal lives, relationships, or spiritual commitments. Just as a garden requires regular tending to flourish, so do our lives and endeavors. If we ignore our duties, we risk allowing chaos and disorder to take over, leading to loss and regret.
How to apply Proverbs 24:31 to your life
To avoid the pitfalls of neglect, we should regularly assess areas of our lives that need attention, such as our relationships, work, and spiritual practices. Setting aside time for maintenance and growth can prevent future problems and ensure we remain productive and fulfilled.
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 Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 24:31
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 24:31
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 24:31 mean?
Proverbs 24:31 illustrates the dangers of neglect and laziness by describing a once-valuable field that has become overgrown with thorns and has a broken wall. It serves as a warning that without care and attention, important aspects of our lives can fall into disrepair.
What is the significance of thorns and nettles in Proverbs 24:31?
Thorns and nettles in Proverbs 24:31 symbolize the consequences of neglect. They represent how, if we do not actively tend to our responsibilities, chaos and disorder can take over, leading to loss and regret.
How can I apply Proverbs 24:31 to my life?
To apply Proverbs 24:31, regularly assess areas in your life that need attention, such as relationships and work. Setting aside time for maintenance and growth can help you avoid future problems and ensure you remain productive.
What lessons can we learn from Proverbs 24:31?
Proverbs 24:31 teaches us that neglecting our duties can lead to negative consequences. It emphasizes the need for diligence and proactive care in all areas of life to maintain order and prevent chaos.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.