Proverbs 26:13
The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.
Original Language Analysis
בַּדָּ֑רֶךְ
in the way
H1870
בַּדָּ֑רֶךְ
in the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
4 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
Cross References
Historical Context
Proverbs frequently mocks sluggard's ridiculous excuses (22:13, 26:16). While wild animals posed real threats in ancient world, lion in city streets was implausible. Modern equivalent might be exaggerating dangers to avoid responsibilities: 'I might fail, get rejected, look foolish, etc.' Fear becomes excuse. Jesus' parable of talents includes servant who buried his talent, making excuses (Matthew 25:24-30). Faithfulness requires courage despite risks.
Questions for Reflection
- What implausible 'lions in the street' are you imagining to justify avoiding responsibilities?
- How do your fears function as rationalizations for laziness rather than legitimate caution?
- What courage would enable you to face real risks instead of manufacturing imaginary dangers?
Analysis & Commentary
The lazy person says there's a lion in the road, a lion in the streets. The Hebrew 'atsel' (lazy/sluggard) and 'ariy' (lion) creates absurd excuse. Sluggard invents ridiculous dangers to justify inaction. Lions don't roam city streets; this excuse is transparently false. Lazy people manufacture excuses rather than facing responsibilities. Fear becomes rationalization for sloth. While genuine dangers require caution, manufactured fears justify foolish avoidance.