Old Testament
Proverbs 27:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For riches are not forever, and does the crown endure to every generation?
Compare translations
For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?
What Proverbs 27:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs reminds us that material wealth and status are temporary. Just as riches can be lost or diminished over time, so too can power and authority, symbolized by a crown. The question posed highlights the uncertainty of whether such honors will last through generations. It serves as a caution against placing too much value on earthly possessions and status, urging us to consider the fleeting nature of these things. Instead of focusing solely on accumulating wealth or seeking power, we should invest in things that have lasting significance, such as relationships, character, and spiritual growth. This perspective encourages a more balanced view of life, where we recognize the limitations of material success and the importance of deeper, more enduring values.
How to apply Proverbs 27:24 to your life
Reflect on what you prioritize in life. Are you focusing too much on accumulating wealth or status? Consider investing time in relationships and personal growth, which offer lasting fulfillment and joy beyond material possessions.
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 27:24
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 27:24
Related Bible verses
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 27:24 mean?
Proverbs 27:24 emphasizes that wealth and power are not permanent. It reminds us that material possessions and status can fade over time, urging us to focus on what truly lasts.
What is the meaning of 'riches are not forever' in Proverbs 27:24?
The phrase 'riches are not forever' highlights the temporary nature of wealth. It suggests that financial success can be fleeting, encouraging us to seek more enduring values in life.
How does Proverbs 27:24 relate to personal priorities?
Proverbs 27:24 encourages reflection on what we value most in life. It suggests that instead of chasing wealth or status, we should invest in relationships and personal development that provide lasting fulfillment.
What lesson can we learn from Proverbs 27:24?
The lesson from Proverbs 27:24 is to recognize the fleeting nature of material wealth and power. It teaches us to focus on building meaningful connections and character, which endure beyond material possessions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.