Proverbs 21:31
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
מ֭וּכָן
is prepared
H3559
מ֭וּכָן
is prepared
Strong's:
H3559
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
לְי֣וֹם
against the day
H3117
לְי֣וֹם
against the day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
3 of 6
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
מִלְחָמָ֑ה
of battle
H4421
מִלְחָמָ֑ה
of battle
Strong's:
H4421
Word #:
4 of 6
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
Cross References
Isaiah 31:1Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!Psalms 20:7Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.Psalms 68:20He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.Psalms 147:10He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.Psalms 3:3But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.Psalms 3:8Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.Ecclesiastes 9:11I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.Jeremiah 3:23Truly in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and from the multitude of mountains: truly in the LORD our God is the salvation of Israel.Psalms 144:10It is he that giveth salvation unto kings: who delivereth David his servant from the hurtful sword.
Historical Context
Horses were military technology giving tactical advantage, yet Israel's history showed God could win battles regardless of military strength (Gideon, David vs. Goliath). Trust in chariots was condemned (Psalm 20:7).
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance diligent preparation with trust in God's sovereign control?
- Where are you tempted to trust your preparations rather than the LORD for victory?
Analysis & Commentary
Though horses are prepared for battle, salvation/victory belongs to the LORD. This balances human responsibility (preparation) with divine sovereignty (outcome). We do our part while acknowledging God alone grants success. This applies to spiritual warfare—we put on armor, but God gives victory.