Proverbs 26:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 26:15
15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 26 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, prayer, love. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 26:15
15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
Analysis
The lazy person buries his hand in the dish; he's too weary to bring it to his mouth. The Hebrew 'taman' (bury/hide) and 'la'ah' (weary/tired) creates absurd exaggeration. Sluggard is so lazy that even eating - self-preservation's basic act - becomes too burdensome. This hyperbole mocks extreme laziness. Some people won't help themselves even when starving. Proverbs 19:24 makes identical point. Sloth produces self-inflicted suffering.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern meals often involved communal dish; hand-feeding was normal. But sluggard won't complete even this simple motion. The absurdity emphasizes laziness's irrationality - refusing minimal effort for obvious benefit. Second Thessalonians 3:10 commands: 'If any would not work, neither should he eat.' Some poverty results from laziness; compassion doesn't require enabling sloth. Wisdom distinguishes deserving poor from lazy poor.
Reflection
- What minimal efforts are you refusing that would produce obvious benefits?
- How does laziness cause you self-inflicted suffering that simple effort would prevent?
- Where do you need to stop enabling others' sloth and require responsible effort?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 19:24