Old Testament
Proverbs 30:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
There is a generation whose teeth are like swords and whose jaw teeth are like knives, to consume the poor from the earth and the needy from among men.
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There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.
What Proverbs 30:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs highlights a generation characterized by their ruthless and aggressive nature. The imagery of teeth as swords and knives suggests that they are destructive and harmful, particularly towards the vulnerable in society, such as the poor and needy. This generation is depicted as predatory, consuming those who are less fortunate, indicating a lack of compassion and a willingness to exploit others for their own gain. The verse serves as a warning about the moral decay that can occur in society when people prioritize their own desires over the well-being of others. It calls attention to the need for justice and protection for the marginalized, urging readers to reflect on their own actions and attitudes towards those in need. Overall, it paints a grim picture of societal values that neglect the welfare of the less fortunate, prompting a call for awareness and change.
How to apply Proverbs 30:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own attitudes towards the vulnerable in society. We should strive to be advocates for the poor and needy, ensuring that we do not contribute to their suffering. Acts of kindness and justice can counteract the harmful tendencies described in this passage.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
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Keep studying Proverbs 30:14
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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 30:14 mean by 'teeth like swords'?
Proverbs 30:14 uses the metaphor of 'teeth like swords' to describe a generation that is aggressive and harmful. This imagery suggests that their actions are destructive, particularly towards the vulnerable, such as the poor and needy. It highlights a predatory nature, indicating that this generation exploits others for personal gain, lacking compassion and moral integrity.
How can we apply Proverbs 30:14 in today's society?
To apply Proverbs 30:14 today, we should reflect on our attitudes and behaviors towards the less fortunate. This verse calls us to advocate for social justice and support the needy, ensuring that we do not contribute to their suffering. Engaging in acts of kindness, volunteering, and promoting policies that protect the vulnerable can help counteract the exploitation described in this passage.
Who are the 'poor' and 'needy' mentioned in Proverbs 30:14?
In Proverbs 30:14, the 'poor' and 'needy' refer to individuals who are marginalized, vulnerable, and lacking basic resources or support. This includes those who struggle financially, socially, or emotionally. The verse emphasizes the responsibility of society to protect and uplift these individuals rather than exploit them, highlighting the need for compassion and justice.
What warning does Proverbs 30:14 give us?
Proverbs 30:14 serves as a warning about the dangers of a generation that lacks empathy and exploits the vulnerable. It cautions against the moral decline that can occur when self-interest prevails over compassion. The verse encourages readers to be vigilant about their own actions and to strive for a society that prioritizes justice and care for those in need.
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