Proverbs 30:28
The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.
Original Language Analysis
שְׂ֭מָמִית
The spider
H8079
שְׂ֭מָמִית
The spider
Strong's:
H8079
Word #:
1 of 6
a lizard (from the superstition of its noxiousness)
בְּיָדַ֣יִם
with her hands
H3027
בְּיָדַ֣יִם
with her hands
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
2 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
תְּתַפֵּ֑שׂ
taketh hold
H8610
תְּתַפֵּ֑שׂ
taketh hold
Strong's:
H8610
Word #:
3 of 6
to manipulate, i.e., seize; chiefly to capture, wield, specifically, to overlay; figuratively, to use unwarrantably
וְ֝הִ֗יא
H1931
וְ֝הִ֗יא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
4 of 6
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern palaces, despite their grandeur, could not exclude small creatures. The proverb's irony: the lowliest creature inhabits the loftiest residence. This democratization of wisdom—that small, weak creatures teach profound lessons—characterizes biblical wisdom literature and contrasts with ancient Near Eastern texts that celebrated only the mighty.
Questions for Reflection
- What small gifts or limited resources has God given you that, used faithfully, could grant access to greater influence?
- How does the spider's presence in palaces encourage you about God's ability to bring you into places beyond your natural reach?
- Where are you despising 'the day of small things' (Zechariah 4:10) rather than using what's in your hand?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The spider taketh hold with her hands (שְׂמָמִית בְּיָדַיִם תְּתַפֵּשׂ, semamit beyadayim tetappes)—שְׂמָמִית (semamit, 'spider' or possibly 'lizard') תָּפַשׂ (tafas, 'grasps, seizes, takes hold') with יָדַיִם (yadayim, 'hands'). The creature uses its 'hands' (legs) skillfully to weave or climb.
And is in kings' palaces (וְהִיא בְּהֵיכְלֵי מֶלֶךְ, vehi beheikhlei melekh)—yet she is found in הֵיכָל (hekhal, 'palace, temple') of מֶלֶךְ (melekh, 'king'). Despite being catchable by hand, small and vulnerable, the spider (or lizard) inhabits the highest places. The lesson: persistence and skill, not size or strength, open doors. Spiritually, diligent use of what God has given, however small, grants access to His presence. 'His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things' (Matthew 25:23).