Proverbs 20:4
The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
Original Language Analysis
מֵ֭חֹרֶף
by reason of the cold
H2779
מֵ֭חֹרֶף
by reason of the cold
Strong's:
H2779
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, the crop gathered, i.e., (by implication) the autumn (and winter) season; figuratively, ripeness of age
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יַחֲרֹ֑שׁ
will not plow
H2790
יַחֲרֹ֑שׁ
will not plow
Strong's:
H2790
Word #:
4 of 7
to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad
יְשָׁאַ֖ל
therefore shall he beg
H7592
יְשָׁאַ֖ל
therefore shall he beg
Strong's:
H7592
Word #:
5 of 7
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
Cross References
Proverbs 10:4He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.Proverbs 19:15Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.Proverbs 13:4The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.Proverbs 24:34So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.Proverbs 19:24A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
Historical Context
Palestinian winters (October-March) were the plowing and sowing season, though cold and rainy. Farmers who avoided this difficult work would have no crops to harvest in spring and summer, leading to begging and hunger.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas are you avoiding difficult but necessary work?
- How do you balance rest with the biblical mandate for diligent labor?
- What 'winter plowing' do you need to do now to avoid future lack?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'sluggard' (Hebrew 'atsel'—lazy person) won't plow in winter due to cold, so he begs during harvest and receives nothing. This illustrates the principle of sowing and reaping. Those who avoid necessary labor when it's difficult will lack when it's time to enjoy fruit. Reformed theology emphasizes diligent work as Christian calling (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Slothfulness is sin—a failure of stewardship and trust in God's providence. This proverb warns that present ease purchased through laziness yields future want.