Old Testament
Proverbs 30:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Proverbs 30:15, the imagery of a leech with two daughters symbolizes insatiable desires.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
The leech has two daughters who cry, 'Give! Give!' There are three things that are never satisfied, indeed, four that never say, 'It is enough:'
The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Proverbs 30:15, the imagery of a leech with two daughters symbolizes insatiable desires. The leech, which feeds on blood, represents greed and the constant craving for more. The verse highlights that there are three, or even four, things in life that are never satisfied, emphasizing the nature of human desires. These could refer to things like death, the grave, and the barren womb, which always seek fulfillment but never find it. This passage serves as a warning against unchecked desires and the futility of trying to satisfy them. It encourages readers to reflect on their own cravings and the emptiness that often accompanies them, reminding us that true contentment comes from within, not from external possessions or achievements. Explore related materialism.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 30:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own desires and recognize when they become excessive. Instead of constantly seeking more, we should strive for contentment with what we have. Practicing gratitude can help us appreciate our current blessings and reduce the urge for more, leading to a more fulfilling life.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 30:15 mean?
Proverbs 30:15 uses the imagery of a leech with two daughters to illustrate insatiable desires. It highlights that there are things in life, like greed and unfulfilled longings, that are never satisfied, warning against the futility of trying to fulfill excessive cravings.
What is the meaning of the leech in Proverbs 30:15?
In Proverbs 30:15, the leech symbolizes greed and insatiable desires. Its two daughters crying 'Give! Give!' represent the constant craving for more, reflecting the nature of human longing that is never truly satisfied.
What are the four things mentioned in Proverbs 30:15?
Proverbs 30:15 mentions three things that are never satisfied, with a fourth implied. Common interpretations include death, the grave, and a barren womb, all of which symbolize unfulfilled desires that continuously seek fulfillment.
How can I apply Proverbs 30:15 to my life?
You can apply Proverbs 30:15 by examining your own desires and striving for contentment with what you have. Practicing gratitude for your current blessings can help reduce the urge for more and lead to a more fulfilling life.
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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