Proverbs 19:24

KJV

¶ A slothful [man] hideth his hand in [his] bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

KJV (with Strong's)

A slothful {H6102} man hideth {H2934} his hand {H3027} in his bosom {H6747}, and will not so much as bring {H7725} it to his mouth {H6310} again {H7725}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The lazy person buries his hand in the dish but doesn't even bother to bring it to his mouth.

Berean Standard Bible

The slacker buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth.

American Standard Version

The sluggard burieth his hand in the dish, And will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 19:24 vividly portrays the extreme and self-destructive nature of idleness. It depicts a man so consumed by sloth that he cannot even perform the most basic act of self-sustenance, refusing to lift his hand from his lap to feed himself. This hyperbole serves as a stark and memorable warning against the profound dangers of laziness, illustrating how unchecked indolence leads to helplessness, neglect, and a complete dereliction of personal responsibility, even for fundamental needs.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 19:24 is situated within a larger collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, primarily attributed to King Solomon. This particular chapter, like many others in the book, contrasts wisdom with folly, diligence with sloth, and righteousness with wickedness. Verses immediately preceding and following often deal with themes of justice, prudence, the consequences of actions, and the character of a wise or foolish person. The proverb's stark imagery of extreme laziness fits perfectly within the didactic purpose of Proverbs, which aims to impart practical wisdom for navigating life righteously and successfully. It is one of several proverbs that employ vivid, sometimes hyperbolic, imagery to condemn idleness, such as the famous depiction of [the sluggard's field](/proverbs/24 "Proverbs 24 - The Field of the Sluggard") that has fallen into disrepair due to neglect.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in most pre-industrial societies, daily life revolved around manual labor, agriculture, and communal effort. Self-sufficiency was paramount, and survival often depended on one's diligence in farming, tending flocks, or crafting goods. The "bosom" mentioned in the proverb refers to the fold of a garment, often used as a pocket or a place to rest one's hands comfortably. The image of a man unable to bring food from this resting place to his mouth would have been profoundly shocking and absurd to an audience whose very existence was tied to physical exertion and immediate provision. Such extreme idleness would not only lead to personal destitution but also be seen as a burden on the community, undermining the collective well-being.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme of Proverbs 19:24 is **extreme sloth** and its devastating consequences. The proverb uses **hyperbole** to illustrate a level of laziness so profound that it borders on self-inflicted harm, highlighting a complete **dereliction of basic responsibility**. This aligns with broader themes in Proverbs that consistently champion **diligence** as a path to prosperity and wisdom, while condemning **idleness** as a direct route to poverty, ruin, and foolishness. The book teaches that one's choices regarding work ethic directly impact their material well-being and character, as seen in passages that commend the diligent hand (e.g., [Proverbs 10:4](/proverbs/10-4 "Proverbs 10:4 - Diligence Leads to Wealth")) and warn against the dangers of excessive sleep and inaction (e.g., [Proverbs 6:9-11](/proverbs/6-9 "Proverbs 6:9-11 - The Sluggard's Poverty")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **slothful (Hebrew, _ʻâtsêl'_):** From the root `עָצַל` (atsal), meaning to be indolent or sluggish. This word precisely defines the character trait being condemned. It's not just a temporary lack of activity, but a deep-seated disposition of idleness and aversion to effort, which is the very essence of the "sluggard" persona frequently critiqued in Proverbs.
* **hideth (Hebrew, _ṭâman'_):** A primitive root meaning "to hide (by covering over)," "to lay privily," or "in secret." In this context, it describes the action of the slothful man's hand being tucked away, perhaps in the folds of his garment or simply resting inertly in his lap. This action signifies not just inactivity, but a deliberate withdrawal from engagement, a passive concealment from any demand for effort or productivity.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** A primitive word referring to the open hand, often indicating power, means, direction, or ability. In the biblical worldview, the hand is frequently a symbol of action, labor, and capability. The fact that the "hand" of the slothful man is hidden and unwilling to move underscores his complete lack of initiative and his refusal to employ his inherent capacity for work and self-provision. It represents his power, means, and ability rendered useless by his indolence.
* **mouth (Hebrew, _peh'_):** From `פָּאָה` (pa'ah), referring to the mouth as the means of blowing, but also literally or figuratively for speech, edge, or portion. Here, it refers to the physical mouth, the organ of consumption. The inability to bring food to the mouth highlights the ultimate consequence of sloth: self-neglect so severe that it threatens basic survival, demonstrating the absurdity and destructiveness of extreme idleness.
* **bring... again (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** A primitive root meaning "to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively," often adverbial, meaning "again." In this verse, it emphasizes the return motion – the hand, once hidden, cannot even be brought *back* to the mouth for the simplest task. This repetition of the verb (implied in "bring it... again") underlines the absolute and persistent nature of the slothfulness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom,"**: This clause introduces the subject – the "slothful man" – and immediately establishes his characteristic posture. His hand is not engaged in productive labor but is comfortably tucked away, signifying a profound disengagement from any form of effort or responsibility. This image sets the stage for the extreme inaction that follows.
* **"and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again."**: This is the climax of the proverb's imagery, employing hyperbole to illustrate the depth of the sloth. The man is so lazy that even the most fundamental act of self-preservation – feeding himself – is beyond his willingness. This isn't just about avoiding work; it's about a complete paralysis of initiative, leading to self-neglect that verges on the absurd and self-destructive.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 19:24 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Hyperbole**, where the proverb presents an exaggerated scenario – a man so lazy he cannot even lift his hand to feed himself. This deliberate overstatement is not meant to be taken literally but serves to underscore the extreme absurdity and destructive nature of unchecked idleness, making the warning more memorable and impactful. The image itself functions as vivid **Imagery**, painting a clear and almost comical picture of utter inaction, which helps the audience grasp the severity of the problem. Furthermore, the proverb uses **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** where the "hand" represents the man's capacity for work and action, and its being "hidden in his bosom" symbolizes his complete lack of initiative and productivity. The proverb is inherently **Didactic**, aiming to teach a moral lesson through this striking example, guiding listeners towards diligence and responsibility by showcasing the dire consequences of their opposites.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb, while seemingly simple, resonates with profound theological truths about human responsibility, stewardship, and the nature of work. God created humanity to work and tend the earth (e.g., [Genesis 2:15](/genesis/2-15 "Genesis 2:15 - Man Placed in the Garden to Work")), establishing labor as an inherent part of human dignity and purpose, even before the Fall. Sloth, therefore, is not merely a practical failing but a spiritual one, a dereliction of the divine mandate to be productive and responsible stewards of life and resources. It reflects a lack of diligence that can hinder personal growth, deplete resources, and ultimately dishonor God who calls us to be active participants in His creation and kingdom. The New Testament echoes these sentiments, emphasizing that believers are called to work diligently, not only for their own provision but also to have something to share with others, and to do all things as unto the Lord.

* [Proverbs 6:6-11](/proverbs/6-6 "Proverbs 6:6-11 - Go to the Ant, You Sluggard")
* [2 Thessalonians 3:10](/2_thessalonians/3-10 "2 Thessalonians 3:10 - The Principle of Work")
* [Ecclesiastes 9:10](/ecclesiastes/9-10 "Ecclesiastes 9:10 - Work with All Your Might")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 19:24 serves as a powerful mirror, challenging us to examine our own lives for areas of spiritual, relational, or vocational sloth. In a world that often values comfort and ease, this proverb reminds us that true flourishing comes through diligent effort and responsible engagement. It calls us to resist the temptation to passively consume rather than actively contribute, to overcome procrastination, and to embrace the dignity of labor in all its forms. This isn't just about earning a living; it's about cultivating a spirit of initiative, self-care, and service that honors God and blesses others. Whether in our daily tasks, our spiritual disciplines, or our relationships, the proverb urges us to be proactive, to take ownership, and to avoid the self-inflicted harm that comes from a lack of effort and commitment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life (work, relationships, spiritual growth) might I be exhibiting a "slothful hand" that is unwilling to engage?**
* **What are the practical or spiritual consequences I observe when I succumb to idleness or procrastination?**
* **How can I intentionally cultivate a stronger work ethic and greater personal responsibility in my daily routines and long-term goals?**
* **Beyond physical work, how does this proverb challenge me to be diligent in my spiritual disciplines (prayer, Bible study, service) and my pursuit of Christlikeness?**

### FAQ
**Is this proverb meant to be taken literally, or is it an exaggeration?**

Answer: Proverbs 19:24 is a classic example of **hyperbole**, a literary device that uses extreme exaggeration for emphasis. It is not meant to be taken literally, as a person would naturally lift their hand to eat out of instinct for survival. Instead, the proverb uses this absurd image to vividly illustrate the profound and self-destructive nature of extreme laziness. It highlights how unchecked idleness can lead to a complete lack of initiative, even for the most basic acts of self-care.

**Does this proverb apply to spiritual laziness as well as physical laziness?**

Answer: Absolutely. While the proverb uses a physical example, its underlying principle of diligence versus sloth has powerful spiritual applications. Spiritual laziness can manifest as a reluctance to engage with God's Word, a lack of consistency in prayer, avoiding opportunities for service, or neglecting spiritual growth. Just as physical sloth leads to want and neglect, spiritual sloth can lead to a lack of spiritual nourishment, stagnation, and a diminished capacity to live out one's faith effectively. The Bible frequently calls believers to be diligent in their faith (e.g., [2 Peter 1:5-8](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5-8 - Make Every Effort")), implying that spiritual growth requires active engagement, not passive waiting.

**How does this proverb relate to the concept of grace in Christianity? Does grace negate the need for diligence?**

Answer: Grace does not negate the need for diligence; rather, it empowers it. The Bible teaches that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")). However, immediately following this, it states that we are "his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")). This means that while our salvation is a gift, it leads to a life of active and diligent service, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The proverb's warning against sloth reminds us that genuine faith is active and fruitful, not passive or idle. Grace provides the foundation and strength, but we are called to respond with diligence in all areas of our lives, including our work and our spiritual walk.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 19:24 highlights the folly of human sloth, its ultimate fulfillment and counter-example are found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Unlike the slothful man, Jesus was the epitome of diligence, always about His Father's business ([Luke 2:49](/lukes/2-49 "Luke 2:49 - Jesus in the Temple")). His earthly ministry was characterized by tireless service, teaching, healing, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God, never exhibiting a "slothful hand" but rather hands always outstretched in compassion and power. He diligently pursued the will of God, even to the point of death on the cross, demonstrating perfect obedience and active love ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). In the New Covenant, believers are called to follow Christ's example, being diligent in their spiritual lives and in their earthly callings. The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome the natural human inclination towards idleness, enabling us to be productive servants in God's kingdom, bearing much fruit ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abide in the Vine")). Our labor "in the Lord" is never in vain ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Steadfast in the Lord")), because Christ Himself is the ultimate worker who completed the greatest work of redemption, inviting us to participate in His ongoing mission with renewed purpose and diligence.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 15:19

¶ The way of the slothful [man is] as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous [is] made plain.

Proverbs 6:9

How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?

Proverbs 6:10

[Yet] a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

Proverbs 24:30

¶ I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

Proverbs 24:34

So shall thy poverty come [as] one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

Proverbs 26:13

¶ The slothful [man] saith, [There is] a lion in the way; a lion [is] in the streets.

Proverbs 26:16

¶ The sluggard [is] wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.