What number verse is Proverbs 27:25 in the Bible?

Proverbs 27:25 is the 17,195th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Proverbs 27:25 sits at position 17,195.

Translation

King James Version

The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

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KJV (with Strong's)

The hay ^H2682 appeareth ^H1540, and the tender grass ^H1877 sheweth ^H7200 itself, and herbs ^H6212 of the mountains ^H2022 are gathered ^H622.

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Complete Jewish Bible

When the hay has been mown, and the new grass appears, and the mountain greens have been gathered;

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Berean Standard Bible

When hay is removed and new growth appears and the grain from the hills is gathered,

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American Standard Version

The hay is carried, and the tender grass showeth itself, And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in.

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World English Bible Messianic

The hay is removed, and the new growth appears, the grasses of the hills are gathered in.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

The hey discouereth it selfe, and the grasse appeareth, and the herbes of the mountaines are gathered.

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Young's Literal Translation

Revealed was the hay, and seen the tender grass, And gathered the herbs of mountains.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Proverbs 27:25 presents a succinct yet profound observation of the natural world's reliable cycles of growth and provision, laying a foundational premise for the subsequent wisdom on diligent stewardship and prudent resource management. It highlights the predictable emergence of vegetation—from initial sprouts to mature forage—culminating in the necessary act of gathering. This verse thus underscores timeless principles of attentiveness, timely action, and proactive preparation, essential for sustained prosperity and well-being in any sphere of life.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Proverbs 27:25 is strategically placed within a section of wisdom literature (Proverbs 27:23-27) that focuses intently on the theme of diligent and attentive stewardship, particularly regarding agrarian and pastoral wealth. The preceding verses, such as Proverbs 27:23, emphasize the importance of personal oversight and intimate knowledge of one's flocks and herds, advocating for direct engagement rather than passive delegation. This verse, by meticulously detailing the natural progression of vegetation from its initial appearance to its readiness for harvest, serves as an observational bedrock. It sets the stage for the subsequent verses (Proverbs 27:26-27), which explicitly articulate the practical benefits derived from recognizing and responding to this natural cycle—lambs for clothing, goats for food, and abundant milk for the household. Thus, Proverbs 27:25 functions as a critical premise, establishing the reliable patterns of nature that a wise individual must discern and act upon, thereby linking the consistent provision of the natural world to human responsibility and the assurance of sustenance.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, life and economy were intrinsically interwoven with the rhythms of agriculture and animal husbandry. The agrarian nature of society meant that the health and productivity of crops and livestock were not merely economic factors but fundamental to survival and prosperity. The terms "hay" (Hebrew: châtsîyr, referring to general fodder or grass) and "tender grass" (Hebrew: desheʼ, denoting young, fresh shoots) describe the initial and ongoing growth of pasture, which was absolutely vital for feeding sheep and goats. The "herbs of the mountains" likely refers to richer, perhaps wilder, and more diverse forage found in higher elevations or more rugged terrains. These would be deliberately gathered to supplement the diet of livestock, especially during less abundant seasons or for specific nutritional needs. This verse vividly reflects a society deeply dependent on seasonal changes, the reliability of rainfall, and the inherent fertility of the land. In such a context, the ability to observe, anticipate, and act decisively upon these natural signs was not just a practical skill but a hallmark of profound wisdom, directly impacting the well-being and security of the family and community.
Key Themes: This proverb significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it powerfully champions Observational Wisdom, encouraging a keen, discerning, and attentive eye to the patterns and processes of the natural world. These natural occurrences are presented not merely as facts but as profound metaphors for understanding life's broader opportunities, challenges, and the timing of action. Secondly, it profoundly underscores the importance of Diligence and Preparation. The appearance of vegetation is not merely to be noted passively but actively responded to through "gathering," implying strenuous labor, foresight, and proactive effort to secure future provision. This principle is vividly illustrated by the industrious ant in Proverbs 6:6-8. Thirdly, the dependable and consistent cycle of nature implicitly points to God's Consistent Provision. It assures the diligent farmer or shepherd that their efforts, when aligned with natural rhythms and divine order, will be blessed with sustenance. Finally, it promotes a philosophy of Sustainable Living, advocating for a lifestyle deeply attuned to environmental realities and focused on long-term well-being rather than short-term exploitation. This resonates with the broader biblical call for responsible stewardship found throughout wisdom literature, such as in Proverbs 12:11.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

appeareth (Hebrew, gâlâh', H1540): From the primitive root H1540, meaning "to denude," "to reveal," or "to disclose." In the context of "the hay appeareth," it denotes the natural, visible emergence or manifestation of vegetation. It suggests that the signs of provision are not hidden but openly displayed, requiring only an observant eye to perceive them. This word implies a natural unveiling, a process by which what was previously unseen (e.g., dormant seeds, underground roots) becomes visible and accessible, signaling a new season of growth and opportunity.
tender grass (Hebrew, desheʼ', H1877): Derived from a root meaning "to sprout," desheʼ specifically refers to young, fresh shoots or new growth. This term emphasizes the early, vibrant stage of vegetation, the initial greening of the landscape after dormancy or rain. Its inclusion alongside "hay" (which can refer to more mature fodder, H2682 châtsîyr) highlights the progression of growth and the critical importance of recognizing the nascent stages of development, which are precursors to future abundance and sustained provision.
gathered (Hebrew, ʼâçaph', H622): From the primitive root H622, meaning "to gather for any purpose," "to receive," or "to take away." In this verse, it signifies the deliberate human action of harvesting or collecting the "herbs of the mountains." This word marks a crucial shift from mere observation to active engagement and labor. The act of gathering implies foresight, diligent preparation, and the necessary effort to secure resources when they are available, ensuring provision for the present and future needs of the household and livestock.

Verse Breakdown

"The hay appeareth": This initial clause describes the visible manifestation of general fodder or grass, indicating the beginning of a new season of growth. It speaks to the reliable, observable cycle of nature where vegetation emerges from the ground, becoming evident to the attentive observer. This "appearing" is a clear and dependable sign of the season and the availability of essential resources for livestock.
"and the tender grass sheweth itself": This phrase reinforces and specifies the preceding clause, emphasizing the emergence of young, fresh shoots. It highlights the vibrant, early stages of growth that are particularly crucial for grazing animals, signifying fresh and abundant pasture. The use of "sheweth itself" further underlines the clear, undeniable, and self-evident nature of these natural indicators, demanding recognition.
"and herbs of the mountains are gathered": This final clause transitions from passive observation to active human response. It indicates that beyond the general pasture, specific, perhaps richer or more diverse, "herbs" from higher elevations or less accessible areas are deliberately collected. This implies a proactive, intentional effort on the part of the farmer or shepherd to harvest these valuable resources, demonstrating foresight, diligent labor, and comprehensive stewardship to secure sustenance for their flocks throughout the year.

Literary Devices

Proverbs 27:25 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound wisdom. Observation is foundational, as the verse begins with a direct, declarative statement about natural phenomena, implicitly inviting the reader to cultivate a keen awareness of the world around them. This acute observation then functions as a powerful Analogy or Metaphor, where the predictable cycle of vegetation—its appearance and the necessary human response of gathering—serves as a timeless pattern for diligent and proactive living in all areas of life. The verse also utilizes a form of Progressive Parallelism, moving from the general appearance of "hay" to the more specific "tender grass" and culminating in the deliberate "gathering of herbs," which creates a sense of natural flow, increasing specificity, and the logical progression from natural phenomenon to human responsibility. The overall tone is distinctly Didactic, instructing the reader by presenting a self-evident truth from nature and implicitly drawing a universal lesson about preparedness, active stewardship, and the rewards of timely action.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This proverb, while rooted in the practicalities of agricultural observation, carries profound theological implications. It implicitly testifies to God's faithful and consistent provision through creation, where the dependable cycles of nature—the appearing of grass and herbs—are a tangible testament to His sustaining hand and His covenant faithfulness. The wisdom imparted is not merely practical but deeply spiritual, teaching that human diligence, foresight, and labor are to be exercised within the framework of divine order and God's established rhythms. Just as God provides the resources through natural processes, humanity is called to steward them wisely, recognizing and seizing the opportune moments for action. This interplay between divine provision and human responsibility is a core biblical theme, emphasizing that true prosperity and flourishing result from aligning human effort with God's established patterns and blessings, trusting in His ongoing care while actively participating in the work He has given us.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Proverbs 27:25 offers timeless wisdom that transcends its original agrarian context, speaking directly to the modern individual's need for attentiveness, discernment, and proactive stewardship in every facet of life. In a world often characterized by overwhelming distractions, instant gratification, and a tendency towards procrastination, this verse calls us to cultivate a keen awareness of the "signs" in our own lives—the emerging opportunities, the subtle shifts in circumstances, the nascent resources, and the providential openings that God makes available. Just as the farmer must observe the tender grass to know when to act, we are encouraged to be present, discerning, and spiritually attuned, recognizing the seasons of growth and opportunity in our careers, relationships, finances, spiritual development, and personal calling. This astute observation must then be coupled with diligent action, actively "gathering" what is needed through thoughtful planning, consistent effort, wise decision-making, and faithful execution. It serves as a powerful reminder that sustained well-being, spiritual fruitfulness, and true abundance are not accidental occurrences but are the direct fruit of consistent, thoughtful, and prayerful effort aligned with God's providential rhythms and principles.

Questions for Reflection

What "tender grass" or emerging opportunities are appearing in my life right now that I might be overlooking or neglecting?
In what specific areas am I failing to "gather" or act diligently on the resources, gifts, or opportunities God has graciously provided?
How can I cultivate a greater sense of awareness, foresight, and spiritual discernment in my daily decisions and long-term planning?
What concrete steps can I take today to better steward the "herbs of the mountains"—the unique, less obvious, or more challenging resources and blessings—that are available to me?

FAQ

Why does Proverbs include such a seemingly simple observation about nature?

Answer: Proverbs, as a quintessential book of wisdom literature, frequently draws profound spiritual and practical lessons from everyday observations of the natural world and human experience. Proverbs 27:25 is far more than a mere botanical note; it serves as a foundational premise for the subsequent teaching on diligent stewardship and responsible living found in Proverbs 27:26-27. It vividly illustrates that life's provisions are cyclical, dependable, and require active, timely participation from humanity. This "simple observation" functions as a powerful analogy for understanding the rhythms of life, the critical importance of recognizing opportunities, and the absolute necessity of timely action and hard work to secure future well-being. Ultimately, it teaches that true wisdom begins with attentive observation of God's created order and acting in harmony with its principles.

What is the practical application of "herbs of the mountains are gathered" for someone not involved in agriculture?

Answer: For those not directly involved in agriculture, "herbs of the mountains are gathered" serves as a rich metaphor for actively securing and utilizing all available resources, especially those that might be less obvious, more challenging to access, or uniquely valuable. Just as a wise farmer would seek out the best and most nutritious forage for his livestock, we are called to diligently identify, cultivate, and leverage all the "resources" in our lives—whether they are skills, relationships, knowledge, financial opportunities, spiritual insights, or unique talents. It speaks to proactive resourcefulness, ensuring that nothing valuable is wasted and that thoughtful preparation is made for future needs, reflecting the broader biblical call to wise and comprehensive stewardship, as seen in passages like Proverbs 10:4.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Proverbs 27:25, with its focus on the natural cycles of provision and the call to diligent stewardship, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very Wisdom of God incarnate, through whom all things were created and by whom all things are sustained (Colossians 1:16-17). Just as the "hay appeareth" and "tender grass sheweth itself" as a reliable sign of God's consistent provision in creation, so too does Christ supremely reveal the Father's ultimate care and faithfulness to humanity. He is the Bread of Life who provides spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies, and the Good Shepherd who leads His flock to green pastures of abundant life (Psalm 23:2). The "gathering" of herbs points to the active work of harvesting and securing resources, which in the New Covenant finds its profound parallel in the spiritual harvest of souls (Matthew 9:37-38) and the diligent stewardship of the gifts, talents, and callings entrusted to us by Christ (Matthew 25:14-30). Ultimately, Christ Himself is the ultimate provision, the one who brings forth abundant spiritual fruit (John 15:5) and ensures eternal sustenance for those who diligently follow Him, making all earthly provisions a shadow of His ultimate and everlasting grace and faithfulness.

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Commentary on Proverbs 27 verses 23–27

23 ¶ Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

25 The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

26 The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.

27 And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points

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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 23–27. Public domain.

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BedeAD 735

Commentary on Proverbs

The meadows are open, etc. The pastures of the heavenly sacraments, which were long closed by legal types, are now open. The novelty of evangelical truth and grace has appeared; the writings of the old fathers are gathered into the pasture of the Lord's flock; indeed taken from the proud Jews by the sickle of divine retribution, and given to the humble people of the Church for spiritual sustenance; according to what the Lord said to them, The kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing its fruits (Matt. XXI).

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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