Old Testament
Proverbs 27:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't boast about tomorrow, for you don't know what a day may bring.
Compare translations
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
What Proverbs 27:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns against the arrogance of assuming we can control the future. It reminds us that life is unpredictable, and we cannot guarantee what tomorrow will bring. Instead of boasting about our plans or successes, we should approach each day with humility and awareness of our limitations. The message encourages us to live in the present and to recognize that unforeseen events can change our circumstances at any moment. By acknowledging our lack of control over the future, we can cultivate a more grounded and realistic perspective on life. This attitude fosters gratitude for the present and encourages us to be prepared for whatever may come, whether good or bad. Ultimately, it teaches us to rely on wisdom and discernment rather than pride in our own plans.
How to apply Proverbs 27:1 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on being present in your daily life. Avoid making grand claims about the future and instead, appreciate what you have today. Make plans, but hold them lightly, understanding that circumstances can change unexpectedly. Trust in God’s guidance.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 27:1
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 27:1
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 27:1 mean?
Proverbs 27:1 advises against boasting about the future, emphasizing that we cannot predict what will happen tomorrow. It highlights the unpredictability of life and encourages humility in our plans.
What is the meaning of 'boast not thyself of tomorrow' in Proverbs 27:1?
The phrase 'boast not thyself of tomorrow' means we should not take pride in our future plans or assume we have control over what will happen. It serves as a reminder to remain humble and aware of life's uncertainties.
How can I apply Proverbs 27:1 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 27:1, focus on living in the present and avoid making definitive statements about the future. Make plans but remain flexible, recognizing that circumstances can change unexpectedly.
What themes are present in Proverbs 27:1?
Key themes in Proverbs 27:1 include humility, the uncertainty of life, living in the present, dependence on God, and avoiding arrogance in our plans.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.