Then I saw, [and] considered [it] well: I looked upon [it, and] received instruction.
Then I saw {H2372}, and considered it well {H7896}{H3820}: I looked {H7200} upon it, and received {H3947} instruction {H4148}.
I looked, and I thought about it; I saw, and I learned this lesson:
I observed and took it to heart; I looked and received instruction:
Then I beheld, and considered well; I saw, and received instruction:
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1 Corinthians 10:11
Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. -
Psalms 4:4
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah. -
Deuteronomy 32:29
O that they were wise, [that] they understood this, [that] they would consider their latter end! -
Job 7:17
¶ What [is] man, that thou shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon him? -
Luke 2:51
And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. -
Jude 1:5
I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. -
Jude 1:7
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
Proverbs 24:32 (KJV) offers a profound lesson on the importance of careful observation and reflection as pathways to wisdom. Following a vivid description of a sluggard's neglected field covered with thorns and nettles, the wise observer recounts their response to this disheartening sight.
Context
This verse concludes a short parable about the consequences of idleness and lack of diligence, found within the "Words of the Wise" section of Proverbs (Proverbs 22:17-24:34). The preceding verses (Proverbs 24:30-31) paint a desolate picture of a field and vineyard belonging to a lazy person, highlighting the decay and ruin that result from negligence. Verse 32 shifts the focus from the problem to the observer's insightful response, emphasizing the value of learning from others' mistakes and the stark contrast between diligence and sloth.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "considered it well" translates the Hebrew shath libbi (שַׁת לִבִּי), which literally means "set my heart upon it." This conveys more than just intellectual analysis; it implies deep, heartfelt contemplation and taking the matter seriously. Similarly, "received instruction" comes from laqach musar (לָקַח מוּסָר), meaning "received discipline" or "received moral correction." It suggests internalizing a lesson that leads to a change in behavior or perspective, underscoring the transformative power of true wisdom.
Practical Application
Proverbs 24:32 encourages believers to be discerning observers of the world around them. Instead of merely noticing societal problems or personal struggles, we are called to truly consider their roots and consequences. This verse teaches us to learn from the outcomes of both diligence and idleness, whether in our own lives or in the lives of others. It's a powerful reminder to cultivate habits of hard work, responsibility, and intentionality, avoiding the path of the sluggard. By doing so, we can gain invaluable wisdom that guides our choices and leads to a more fruitful life, both practically and spiritually. Just as the wise person learns from observing the sluggard, so too can we apply these principles to our work, finances, relationships, and spiritual walk, ensuring we are always growing in wisdom and understanding.