TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 27:23–27. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. A command given us to be diligent in our callings. It is directed to husbandmen and shepherds, and those that deal in cattle, but it is to be extended to all other lawful callings; whatever our business is, within doors or without, we must apply our minds to it. This command intimates, 1. That we ought to have some business to do in this world and not to live in idleness. 2. We ought rightly and fully to understand our business, and know what we have to do, and not meddle with that which we do not understand. 3. We ought to have an eye to it ourselves, and not turn over all the care of it to others. We should, with our own eyes, inspect the state of our flocks, it is the master's eye that makes them fat. 4. We must be discreet and considerate in the management of our business, know the state of things, and look well to them, that nothing may be lost, no opportunity let slip, but every thing done in proper time and order, and so as to turn to the best advantage. 5. We must be diligent and take pains; not only sit down and contrive, but be up and doing: "Set thy heart to thy herds, as one in care; lay thy hands, lay thy bones, to thy business."
II.The reasons to enforce this command. Consider,
1.The uncertainty of worldly wealth (Pro 27:24): Riches are not for ever. (1.) Other riches are not so durable as these are: "Look well to thy flocks and herds, thy estate in the country and the stock upon that, for these are staple commodities, which, in a succession, will be for ever, whereas riches in trade and merchandise will not be so; the crown itself may perhaps not be so sure to thy family as thy flocks and herds." (2.) Even these riches will go to decay if they be not well looked after. If a man had an abbey (as we say), and were slothful and wasteful, he might make an end of it. Even the crown and the revenues of it, if care be not taken, will suffer damage, nor will it continue to every generation without very good management. Though David had the crown entailed on his family, yet he looked well to his flocks, Ch1 27:29, Ch1 27:31.
2.The bounty and liberality of nature, or rather of the God of nature, and his providence (Pro 27:25): The hay appears. In taking care of the flocks and herds, (1.) "There needs no great labour, no ploughing or sowing; the food for them is the spontaneous product of the ground; thou hast nothing to do but to turn them into it in the summer, when the grass shows itself, and to gather the herbs of the mountains for them against winter. God has done his part; thou art ungrateful to him, and unjustly refusest to serve his providence, if thou dost not do thine." (2.) "There is an opportunity to be observed and improved, a time when the hay appears; but, if thou let slip that time, thy flocks and herds will fare the worse for it. As for ourselves, so for our cattle, we ought, with the ant, to provide meat in summer."
3.The profit of good husbandry in a family: "Keep thy sheep, and thy sheep will help to keep thee; thou shalt have food for thy children and servants, goats' milk enough (Pro 27:27); and enough is as good as a feast. Thou shalt have raiment likewise: the lambs' wool shall be for thy clothing. Thou shalt have money to pay thy rent; the goats thou shalt have to sell shall be the price of thy field;" nay, as some understand it, "Thou shalt become a purchaser, and buy land to leave to thy children," (Pro 27:26). Note,
(1.)If we have food and raiment, and wherewithal to give every body his own, we have enough, and ought to be not only content, but thankful.
(2.)Masters of families must provide not only for themselves, but for their families, and see that their servants have a fitting maintenance.
(3.)Plain food and plain clothing, if they be but competent, are all we should aim at. "Reckon thyself well done to if thou be clothed with home-spun cloth with the fleece of thy own lambs, and fed with goats' milk; let that serve for thy food which serves for the food of thy household and the maintenance of thy maidens. Be not desirous of dainties, far-fetched and dear-bought." (4.) This should encourage us to be careful and industrious about our business, that that will bring in a sufficient maintenance for our families; we shall eat the labour of our hands.
Historical interpretation
Three Centuries of Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
It is not fitting to address simply to all who have believed in Christ instruction upon all points, for it is written, “With knowledge learn the souls of your flock.” For the way is very different by which we establish in the paths of truth one who has but just now become a disciple, from one more confirmed in mind and able to understand what is the height and depth, and what the length and breadth. In the former, use simple teaching, in which there is nothing profound or difficult to understand. Counsel him to escape from the error of polytheism and fittingly persuade him to discern by the beauty of things created, the universal creator and artificer, who is one by nature and truly God.
Diligently know the countenance of your flock, etc. It is said to the pastor of the Church: Diligently care for those who it happens to you to be in charge of. Know the minds and actions of each one, and if you find anything in them of defiling vice, remember to correct it swiftly. For you will not always have the power to feed the Lord's sheep, but the eternal crown is which you will receive, if you have served well the office entrusted to you in your time.
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Summary
Proverbs 27:23 offers profound wisdom on diligent and intimate oversight, urging individuals to actively understand and meticulously care for their responsibilities, symbolized by "flocks" and "herds." This timeless proverb transcends its ancient agrarian context, advocating for a proactive, informed, and sustained engagement with all entrusted resources—be they material assets, relationships, spiritual gifts, or personal well-being—as a foundational principle for stability, flourishing, and wise stewardship.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 27 is part of a larger collection of Solomon's proverbs (Proverbs 25-29), characterized by a diverse array of short, pithy sayings offering practical wisdom for daily living. Unlike some chapters that focus on a single theme, Proverbs 27 presents a series of disconnected but equally insightful admonitions, covering topics such as friendship, self-control, the dangers of boasting, and the value of honest labor. Verse 23, with its focus on diligent management of resources, fits within this broader tapestry of practical advice, emphasizing the importance of responsible stewardship as a pathway to security and prosperity, a theme echoed throughout the wisdom literature. It immediately precedes verses that speak to the abundance that comes from such diligence, reinforcing the cause-and-effect relationship inherent in the wisdom tradition, as seen in Proverbs 27:24-27.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, an agrarian society, livestock—sheep, goats, and cattle—represented the primary form of wealth, capital, and sustenance. Flocks and herds were not merely possessions but living assets that provided food (meat, milk), clothing (wool, hides), and even a medium of exchange. The health and productivity of these animals directly impacted a family's or community's survival and prosperity. Neglect could lead to disease, loss, and destitution, while diligent care ensured a steady supply of resources and sustained livelihood. Therefore, the instruction to "know the state of thy flocks" and "look well to thy herds" was a direct, practical command for sound economic management, personal responsibility, and the preservation of one's legacy in a society where wealth was intrinsically tied to agricultural success. This context highlights the tangible, life-sustaining implications of the proverb's wisdom.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of Diligence and Active Oversight, advocating for hands-on, informed management rather than passive ownership. This proactive approach is consistently linked to prosperity and contrasted with the poverty that results from sloth, as seen in passages like Proverbs 10:4. The verse also champions the principle of Stewardship of Resources, teaching that all possessions are entrusted assets requiring careful, responsible management. This concept extends beyond material wealth to encompass all of life's provisions, including time, talents, and relationships, echoing the broader biblical call to be faithful stewards of God's gifts, a theme further developed in the New Testament, such as in 1 Corinthians 4:2. Furthermore, Proverbs 27:23 exemplifies Practical Wisdom and Prosperity, demonstrating how consistent, informed effort leads to stability and success, aligning with the book's overall aim to impart wisdom for a flourishing life.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to know," but with a rich semantic range. It implies more than mere intellectual acquaintance; it suggests an intimate, experiential, and often relational knowledge. In this context, it means to ascertain by seeing, to observe, to care for, to recognize the condition of, and to comprehend fully. It calls for a deep, personal understanding of the "state" of one's flocks, not just a superficial glance.
Plural of an unused noun meaning "face." This word is used in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively. Here, "state" refers to the outward appearance, condition, or immediate reality of the flocks. To "know the state" means to be intimately familiar with their current condition, health, number, and overall well-being as if looking them directly in the "face" or observing their "presence."
Referring to the heart, used figuratively for the feelings, the will, and even the intellect. When combined with the verb shîyth (H7896, to place or set), as in "look well" (literally "set your heart"), it forms a powerful idiom indicating deep attention, careful consideration, and focused effort. It's not just about observing, but about investing one's mind, will, and affection into the task of caring for the herds, implying a commitment of one's inner being to the management of these resources.
Verse Breakdown
"Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks,"
This opening clause is an imperative command for active, thorough, and ongoing assessment. "Diligent to know" implies a persistent, intentional effort to gain a deep, intimate understanding of the current condition, health, and needs of one's sheep and goats. It's about being proactive in observation and analysis, ensuring nothing is overlooked that might impact their well-being or productivity.
"and look well to thy herds."
This second clause reinforces and expands upon the first, applying the same principle to cattle. "Look well to" (literally "set your heart upon") signifies a profound level of care, attention, and commitment. It's not just about knowing, but about applying one's mind and will to the careful management and nurturing of these valuable assets, ensuring their prosperity and guarding against neglect. The use of both "flocks" and "herds" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the required diligence, extending to all forms of one's livelihood.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 27:23 employs several effective literary devices to convey its timeless wisdom. The primary device is Analogy, where the specific context of managing "flocks" and "herds" serves as a direct parallel for the broader principle of diligent oversight in all areas of life. This agrarian imagery makes the abstract concept of responsible stewardship concrete and relatable. Furthermore, the verse exhibits Synonymous Parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, where the second line ("and look well to thy herds") reiterates and intensifies the meaning of the first line ("Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks"). This repetition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the required diligence. Finally, the use of "flocks" and "herds" functions as Metonymy or Symbolism, where these concrete objects stand in for all forms of wealth, resources, responsibilities, and even one's life circumstances, illustrating that the principle extends far beyond literal animal husbandry to encompass all entrusted aspects of one's existence.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Proverbs 27:23 is deeply rooted in the biblical theology of stewardship, a foundational principle that recognizes God as the ultimate owner of all things, and humanity as His appointed caretakers. This verse teaches that diligent management of resources is not merely a practical skill for earthly prosperity, but an act of faithfulness and obedience to God. It reflects the divine order where hard work, attentiveness, and wise oversight are blessed, contributing to a flourishing life (shalom). The proverb connects to themes of responsibility, accountability, and the understanding that true wisdom involves practical application in daily life, transforming abstract knowledge into tangible, beneficial actions. It reminds us that our resources, whether material or otherwise, are gifts from God, and our diligent care for them reflects our reverence for the Giver.
Reflection and Application
The wisdom of Proverbs 27:23 transcends its ancient setting, offering profound guidance for contemporary life. It challenges us to move beyond passive ownership or superficial engagement with our responsibilities, urging us instead toward a posture of active, informed, and heartfelt diligence. This applies to every sphere: our finances, careers, relationships, physical health, and spiritual growth. To "know the state" means to regularly assess, understand, and address the needs of what has been entrusted to us. To "look well to" implies investing our "heart"—our deepest attention, care, and commitment—into these areas. Neglecting any of these "flocks" or "herds" in our lives inevitably leads to decay and loss, while consistent, prayerful, and intentional oversight cultivates growth, stability, and flourishing. This proverb calls us to a life of responsible stewardship, recognizing that our well-being and effectiveness are often directly proportional to the diligence we apply to the things God has placed in our care.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "know the state" truly imply in this verse?
"Know the state" (Hebrew: yâdaʻ pânîym) implies a deep, intimate, and experiential understanding, not just a superficial awareness. It means to ascertain by seeing, to observe carefully, to comprehend the current condition, health, and needs of your "flocks" (or whatever resources they represent). It's an active, ongoing process of assessment and recognition, akin to looking someone in the "face" to truly understand their condition. This level of knowing allows for proactive care and informed decision-making, ensuring that one is fully aware of the realities of their entrusted responsibilities.
How does this ancient agricultural proverb apply to modern life?
While the immediate context is ancient agriculture, the principles are universally applicable. "Flocks" and "herds" symbolize all forms of resources and responsibilities in modern life. This includes financial assets (budgets, investments), professional duties (career, business ventures), personal well-being (physical health, emotional state), relationships (family, friends), and spiritual disciplines. The proverb teaches that diligent, attentive, and intentional management of these areas is crucial for stability, growth, and flourishing. Just as a shepherd must understand his animals' needs, we must understand and actively care for what has been entrusted to us. For example, in the Parable of the Talents, Jesus illustrates the importance of diligent stewardship of entrusted resources, a principle directly paralleling Proverbs 27:23.
Is this verse primarily about material wealth, or does it have broader spiritual implications?
While the verse uses material wealth (livestock) as its example, its implications are far broader and deeply spiritual. It speaks to the principle of stewardship, which is a core biblical concept: all that we have ultimately belongs to God, and we are called to manage it faithfully. This includes not only material possessions but also our time, talents, relationships, and even our own bodies and minds. The diligence and care described in this verse reflect a posture of responsibility before God, recognizing that faithful management of the "little things" can lead to being entrusted with "much," as taught in Luke 16:10. Thus, it has profound spiritual implications for how we live out our lives as stewards of God's grace, impacting our character, our witness, and our ultimate accountability to God.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 27:23, with its call for diligent and intimate oversight of one's resources, finds its ultimate fulfillment and highest expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb speaks to human responsibility, Christ embodies the perfect Steward, demonstrating unparalleled diligence and care for all that was entrusted to Him by the Father. He perfectly "knew the state" of His "flocks"—the people of God—understanding their deepest needs, their spiritual sickness, and their lost condition, as described in Matthew 9:36. He did not merely observe from a distance but intimately engaged with humanity, laying down His life for His sheep, as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. Furthermore, Jesus perfectly "looked well to His herds," diligently managing His earthly ministry, His time, and His divine mission to accomplish redemption. His unwavering focus on the Father's will and His meticulous execution of His redemptive purpose—from His teaching and healing to His suffering and resurrection—demonstrate the ultimate "setting of the heart upon" His divine task. In Christ, we see not only the perfect model of diligence and stewardship, but also the One who, through His sacrifice, provides the spiritual "flocks" and "herds" (the Church and its resources) that we are now called to steward with the same Christ-like diligence, empowered by His Spirit, for the building up of the body of Christ, as seen in Ephesians 4:11-12. He is the ultimate fulfillment of the wisdom of Proverbs, showing us what true, faithful stewardship looks like, both in His life and in the life He enables us to live.