Proverbs 12:24

¶ The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

The hand {H3027} of the diligent {H2742} shall bear rule {H4910}: but the slothful {H7423} shall be under tribute {H4522}.

The diligent will rule, while the lazy will be put to forced labor.

The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.

The hand of the diligent shall bear rule; But the slothful shall be put under taskwork.

Proverbs 12:24 presents a clear and concise wisdom principle contrasting two fundamental approaches to life: diligence and slothfulness. It highlights the direct consequences of each, promising prosperity and influence for the industrious, and hardship and subservience for the idle.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for living a righteous and successful life. Many proverbs, like this one, are structured as antithetical couplets, contrasting two opposing ideas or behaviors and their respective outcomes. This verse falls within a section that frequently contrasts the righteous with the wicked, the wise with the foolish, and the diligent with the lazy, emphasizing the cause-and-effect relationship inherent in God's moral order. It speaks to the societal and personal benefits of a strong work ethic, a value highly esteemed in biblical times and still relevant today.

Key Themes

  • Diligence and Its Rewards: The "hand of the diligent" refers to one who is industrious, hard-working, and persistent. Such an individual is promised to "bear rule," implying leadership, influence, and success. This isn't just about wealth, but about gaining respect, responsibility, and a position of authority due to their consistent effort and competence.
  • Slothfulness and Its Consequences: In stark contrast, the "slothful" individual is characterized by idleness, laziness, and a lack of initiative. The consequence is to be "under tribute," meaning they will be subjected to others, perhaps even forced into servitude or economic dependence. This speaks to a loss of autonomy and a life of hardship, often having to rely on or serve those who are diligent.
  • Cause and Effect: The verse powerfully illustrates a fundamental principle: our actions have direct consequences. Diligence leads to elevation, while idleness leads to subjugation. This is a recurring theme in Proverbs, emphasizing personal responsibility and the practical outcomes of choices.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "diligent" is charuts (חָרוּץ), which can mean sharp, decisive, or diligent, implying a focused and energetic effort. The phrase "bear rule" comes from mashal (מָשַׁל), meaning to rule, govern, or have dominion, suggesting a position of authority or influence. Conversely, "slothful" is derived from remiyah (רְמִיָּה), which signifies slackness, deceit, or negligence. To be "under tribute" uses the word mas (מַס), referring to forced labor, conscription, or tribute, indicating a state of being subjected to the will or demands of others, often due to economic necessity or a lack of personal productivity.

Related Scriptures

This proverb echoes similar wisdom found throughout the Bible. The benefits of diligence are further expounded in Proverbs 10:4, "He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich." Similarly, Proverbs 13:4 states that "The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat." The negative consequences of idleness are vividly portrayed in the "go to the ant" passage in Proverbs 6:6-11, which warns against the dangers of excessive sleep and lack of foresight. The New Testament also encourages a strong work ethic, urging believers to "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Colossians 3:23).

Practical Application

Proverbs 12:24 serves as a timeless reminder of the value of hard work and the perils of idleness. For believers, this isn't just about worldly success, but about stewarding the gifts and opportunities God has given us. It encourages us to be productive members of society, contributing to the common good and exercising leadership in our spheres of influence, whether in our careers, families, or communities. Conversely, it warns against the spiritual and practical dangers of laziness, which can lead to missed opportunities, dependence, and a failure to fulfill our potential. Embracing diligence aligns us with God's design for human flourishing and allows us to experience the fruit of our labor.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 12:27

    ¶ The slothful [man] roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man [is] precious.

  • Proverbs 10:4

    ¶ He becometh poor that dealeth [with] a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

  • Proverbs 21:25

    ¶ The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.

  • Proverbs 21:26

    He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

  • Proverbs 17:2

    ¶ A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.

  • Proverbs 13:4

    ¶ The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

  • 1 Kings 11:28

    And the man Jeroboam [was] a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph.

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