Old Testament
Proverbs 30:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
There are three things that make the earth tremble, and four that it cannot endure:
Compare translations
For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four which it cannot bear:
What Proverbs 30:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Proverbs 30:21 highlights certain behaviors or situations that are so disruptive that they cause the earth to tremble. The verse suggests that there are specific actions or characteristics that are intolerable and create chaos in the world. The use of 'three' and 'four' emphasizes a sense of completeness, indicating that these issues are significant and should not be overlooked. The verse serves as a reminder of the moral and ethical standards that govern human behavior and the consequences of failing to adhere to them. It invites readers to reflect on the impact of their actions and the importance of living in a way that promotes harmony rather than discord. The imagery of the earth trembling suggests a deep, universal reaction to these behaviors, indicating that they are not just personal failings but have broader implications for society as a whole.
How to apply Proverbs 30:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our actions and their impact on others. By identifying behaviors that cause turmoil, we can strive to avoid them and promote peace in our relationships and communities. Living with awareness of our influence can lead to a more harmonious environment.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 30:21
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 30:21
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 30:21 mean?
Proverbs 30:21 describes behaviors or situations that are so disruptive they cause the earth to tremble. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and avoiding actions that create chaos in our lives and communities.
What are the three things that make the earth tremble in Proverbs 30:21?
The verse mentions three things that make the earth tremble, but it does not specify them directly. The focus is on the idea that certain intolerable behaviors exist that can lead to significant disruption.
What is the significance of the number three and four in Proverbs 30:21?
The use of 'three' and 'four' in Proverbs 30:21 emphasizes completeness and highlights the seriousness of the behaviors that cause turmoil. It suggests that these issues are critical and should not be ignored.
How can I apply Proverbs 30:21 to my life?
You can apply Proverbs 30:21 by reflecting on your actions and their effects on others. Striving to avoid behaviors that cause disruption can help promote peace and harmony in your relationships.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.