Proverbs 26:7
The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
Original Language Analysis
דַּלְי֣וּ
are not equal
H1809
דַּלְי֣וּ
are not equal
Strong's:
H1809
Word #:
1 of 6
to slacken or be feeble; figuratively, to be oppressed
וּ֝מָשָׁ֗ל
so is a parable
H4912
וּ֝מָשָׁ֗ל
so is a parable
Strong's:
H4912
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)
Cross References
Historical Context
Throughout Scripture, knowing truth without living it proves worthless. James 1:22-24 warns: 'Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.' Jesus condemned Pharisees for saying but not doing (Matthew 23:3). Proverbs aren't magic incantations but require wise application. Fools can memorize and quote wisdom while living foolishly, rendering knowledge useless.
Questions for Reflection
- What biblical wisdom do you know intellectually but fail to apply practically?
- How does knowledge without application resemble lame legs - possessing something useless?
- What changes would make your knowledge functional rather than merely decorative?
Analysis & Commentary
Like legs that hang limp, so is a proverb in a fool's mouth. The Hebrew 'dalag shokayim' (legs of lame) creates imagery of useless limbs. Lame person's legs don't function for their purpose. Similarly, proverbs in fool's mouth don't function properly - wisdom becomes worthless through misapplication. Knowing right words but applying them wrongly is useless. Wisdom requires both knowing truth and applying it appropriately. Fools may quote proverbs but live foolishly.