Proverbs Chapter 12 · Verse 24
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.
Original Language Analysis
יַד
The hand
H3027
יַד
The hand
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
1 of 6
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
חָרוּצִ֥ים
of the diligent
H2742
חָרוּצִ֥ים
of the diligent
Strong's:
H2742
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, incised or (active) incisive; hence (as noun masculine or feminine) a trench (as dug), gold (as mined), a threshing-sledge (having sharp tee
Cross References
Proverbs 12:27The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.Proverbs 10:4He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.Proverbs 17:2A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.Proverbs 22:29Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.Proverbs 19:15Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.Proverbs 22:13The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.Proverbs 13:4The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.Genesis 49:15And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute.1 Kings 11:28And the man Jeroboam was a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph.
Historical Context
Ancient societies were stratified with clear master-servant distinctions. Hard work provided social mobility, while laziness guaranteed perpetual servitude.
Questions for Reflection
- How has faithful diligence in small matters prepared you for greater responsibility?
- Where does slothfulness prevent you from exercising the leadership God intends?
Analysis & Commentary
Diligent hands gain authority through demonstrated competence and faithfulness. The slothful serve others, lacking self-governance. This principle applies spiritually—those faithful in little are given much (Luke 16:10), while negligent servants are disciplined.