Proverbs 21:5

Commentary on Proverbs 21:5 (KJV)

Proverbs 21:5 offers a profound insight into the outcomes of two contrasting approaches to life and work: diligence versus haste. This verse teaches a fundamental principle of cause and effect, where thoughtful planning and sustained effort lead to prosperity, while impulsive actions inevitably result in scarcity.

Context

This proverb is situated within the broader wisdom literature of the book of Proverbs, which is rich with practical guidance for daily living. Proverbs often uses antithetical parallelism, presenting two opposing ideas to highlight a moral or practical truth. Here, the contrast between the "diligent" and the "hasty" serves as a timeless lesson on the importance of prudence, foresight, and hard work in achieving success and avoiding financial or personal ruin. It speaks to themes of good stewardship, financial planning, and the consequences of one's choices, which are pervasive throughout the book.

Key Themes

• The Reward of Diligence: The phrase "The thoughts of the diligent [tend] only to plenteousness" underscores that careful, well-considered plans and consistent, industrious effort are the pathways to abundance and prosperity. "Thoughts" here refers not just to mental activity, but to intentional planning and strategic foresight that guides action. This suggests that true success is not accidental but is the natural outcome of disciplined work and thoughtful preparation.
• The Consequence of Haste: Conversely, "but of every one [that is] hasty only to want" warns against impulsiveness and a desire for quick returns without proper foundation. "Hasty" actions are those undertaken without sufficient deliberation, often driven by impatience or a desire to bypass necessary steps. Such an approach, the proverb declares, leads only to "want"—a state of lack, deficiency, or poverty. This serves as a strong caution against get-rich-quick schemes or decisions made without careful consideration, a sentiment echoed in Proverbs 28:20.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "diligent" is charuts (חָרוּץ), which conveys the idea of being decisive, sharp, or industrious, implying someone who is active and energetic in their endeavors. "Plenteousness" comes from motar (מוֹתָר), meaning advantage, abundance, or profit. On the other hand, "hasty" is from 'ats (אָץ), meaning to hurry or to press, suggesting impatience or rushing. "Want" is machsor (מַחְסוֹר), signifying deficiency, lack, or need. These terms powerfully delineate the contrasting paths and their inevitable outcomes.

Practical Application

Proverbs 21:5 holds profound relevance for modern life, offering timeless wisdom for personal, professional, and spiritual endeavors:

• Financial Wisdom: It encourages careful budgeting, strategic saving, and patient investment over impulsive spending or risky ventures. True financial security often stems from consistent, disciplined habits.
• Work Ethic: The verse advocates for a strong work ethic, emphasizing that success in any field requires thoughtful planning, persistent effort, and attention to detail rather than shortcuts or superficial work.
• Decision-Making: It serves as a reminder to deliberate thoroughly before making significant decisions, whether in business, relationships, or personal goals, rather than acting impulsively out of impatience or a desire for instant gratification.
• Spiritual Growth: This principle also applies spiritually. Consistent Bible study, prayer, and fellowship—diligent spiritual disciplines—lead to spiritual "plenteousness," while a hasty or sporadic approach to one's faith often results in spiritual "want." This aligns with the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where effort yields fruit.

In essence, this proverb is a powerful call to cultivate patience, foresight, and diligence, assuring that such qualities are the true architects of a prosperous and fulfilling life.