Proverbs 27:26

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

The lambs {H3532} are for thy clothing {H3830}, and the goats {H6260} are the price {H4242} of the field {H7704}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the lambs will provide your clothing, the goats will sell for enough to buy a field,

Berean Standard Bible

the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field.

American Standard Version

The lambs are for thy clothing, And the goats are the price of the field;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 27:26 offers a vivid illustration of the tangible benefits derived from diligent stewardship and wise management of resources, particularly in an agrarian context. It highlights how the natural increase of livestock—lambs and goats—directly provides for essential human needs like clothing and also serves as a valuable commodity for significant economic transactions, such as acquiring land. This proverb underscores the profound connection between industrious labor, prudent foresight, and sustained provision, emphasizing that faithfulness in managing present assets leads to future security and prosperity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of Proverbs (chapters 25-29) often referred to as "further proverbs of Solomon that the officials of Hezekiah king of Judah copied." Specifically, [Proverbs 27:23-27](/proverbs/27-23-27 "Proverbs 27:23-27 - Care for Your Flocks") forms a cohesive unit, a mini-discourse on the importance of diligent care for one's livestock and fields. The preceding verses, [Proverbs 27:23-24](/proverbs/27-23-24 "Proverbs 27:23-24 - Know the State of Your Flocks"), explicitly command the reader to "know well the state of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds," because "riches do not last forever." This sets the stage for verse 26 by establishing the foundational principle that careful oversight of agricultural assets is paramount for enduring prosperity. Verse 25 speaks of the natural growth cycle of plants and the gathering of fodder, further emphasizing the organic process of provision. Thus, [Proverbs 27:26](/proverbs/27-26 "Proverbs 27:26 - Lambs for Clothing, Goats for Price of Field") serves as a concrete example of the practical outcomes of the diligent stewardship advocated in the preceding verses, demonstrating how the increase from livestock directly translates into essential provisions and economic leverage.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society was predominantly agrarian, with its economy deeply rooted in agriculture and animal husbandry. Livestock—sheep, goats, and cattle—were not merely sources of food but were fundamental to daily life and economic stability. Sheep provided wool for clothing, meat for sustenance, and milk. Goats offered milk, meat, hair (for tents and fabrics), and hides. Both were also used for sacrificial offerings. Land was the primary form of wealth and security, representing a family's heritage and future. The ability to acquire or expand land holdings was a significant indicator of prosperity and social standing. The "field" (sâdeh) represents productive land, essential for growing crops or grazing animals. Therefore, the imagery in [Proverbs 27:26](/proverbs/27-26 "Proverbs 27:26 - Lambs for Clothing, Goats for Price of Field") would have resonated deeply with its original audience, who understood intimately how the careful management of their flocks and fields was directly tied to their survival, comfort, and ability to accumulate wealth or secure their future.

* **Key Themes:** This proverb powerfully articulates several key themes. First and foremost is **Diligent Stewardship**, emphasizing that the abundance described is not accidental but the direct result of careful, consistent attention to one's responsibilities and resources, particularly one's livelihood. This aligns with broader biblical teachings on managing God-given resources, as seen in the [parable of the talents](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - Parable of the Talents"). Second, it highlights **Natural Provision and Economic Cycles**, illustrating how God's design for creation allows for sustained provision through human labor. The natural increase of livestock directly meets human needs and provides a means for economic transaction, demonstrating a divinely ordered system where work yields reward. Finally, the proverb speaks to **Foresight and Investment**. The use of goats as the "price of the field" moves beyond mere consumption, pointing to the strategic use of assets for long-term security and growth. It encourages a mindset of saving, investing, and planning for the future, rather than immediate gratification, a principle echoed in [Proverbs 21:20](/proverbs/21-20 "Proverbs 21:20 - Precious Treasure and Oil Are in a Wise Man's Dwelling").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lambs (Hebrew, _kebes'_):** From an unused root meaning "to dominate," this term refers to a ram, specifically one just old enough to butt, or more generally, a lamb or sheep. In this context, "lambs" represent the young, growing stock of the flock, signifying the natural increase and productivity of the sheep, which are a primary source of wool and meat. Their mention for "clothing" directly points to their practical utility as providers of raw materials.
* **Clothing (Hebrew, _lᵉbûwsh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to clothe," this word denotes a garment, apparel, or vestment. It encompasses all forms of attire. Here, it specifically refers to the wool obtained from the lambs, which is processed into textiles for making clothes. This highlights the direct, tangible benefit of raising sheep for essential personal needs.
* **Goats (Hebrew, _ʻattûwd'_):** From a root meaning "prepared" or "full grown," this term refers specifically to he-goats, or figuratively, to leaders. In the plural, as used here, it denotes the mature, valuable animals within the goat herd. Goats, like sheep, were vital for milk, meat, and hair, but their mention as the "price of the field" suggests they represent a significant, liquid asset, capable of being traded for substantial property.
* **Price (Hebrew, _mᵉchîyr'_):** From an unused root meaning "to buy," this word signifies the cost, payment, or wages for something. It directly denotes the monetary or exchange value of an item. In this verse, it clearly indicates that the goats serve as the means of exchange or the equivalent value required to acquire or purchase a field, underscoring their economic significance as a form of wealth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The lambs [are] for thy clothing":** This clause establishes the direct, practical utility of sheep. The natural increase of the flock, specifically the lambs, provides the raw material (wool) necessary for making clothing. This highlights a fundamental aspect of self-sufficiency and provision within an agrarian society, where diligent care of livestock directly translates into meeting basic human needs. It speaks to the immediate, tangible benefits of good animal husbandry.
* **"and the goats [are] the price of the field":** This second clause expands on the economic value of livestock, specifically goats. Beyond providing for immediate needs, the goats represent a significant asset that can be used for larger investments. "The price of the field" indicates that goats, due to their value and re-productivity, could be traded or sold to acquire land, the most significant form of wealth and security in ancient times. This illustrates the principle of using current assets strategically for long-term financial growth and stability.

#### Literary Devices
The proverb employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. **Imagery** is central, painting a clear picture of an agrarian life where lambs and goats are vital resources. This concrete imagery makes the abstract principles of diligence and stewardship accessible and relatable. **Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, is evident in the two clauses, where "lambs for clothing" is paralleled by "goats for the price of the field." While not strict synonymous or antithetical parallelism, it presents two distinct yet complementary aspects of provision derived from livestock, reinforcing the overall theme. The phrase "price of the field" can also be seen as a form of **Metonymy**, where the "goats" are not literally the currency, but represent the *value* or *means* by which a field is acquired, standing in for the economic power they embody. The proverb's concise structure and direct statements contribute to its didactic nature, making it a memorable and actionable piece of wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 27:26 beautifully encapsulates the biblical principle of divine provision through human diligence. It illustrates that God's design for creation includes natural cycles of increase and provision, but these blessings are often contingent upon responsible human stewardship. The proverb implicitly teaches that faithful labor is not merely a means to an end, but a participation in God's ongoing work of sustaining life. It connects the mundane tasks of animal husbandry to the profound theological truth that God blesses the work of our hands, enabling us to meet our needs and even acquire significant assets. This principle extends beyond agriculture to all forms of labor and resource management, reminding us that all we possess is a gift from God, to be managed wisely for His glory and our good.

* [Deuteronomy 28:12](/deuteronomy/28-12 "The Lord will open to you his good treasury")
* [Psalm 128:2](/psalms/128-2 "You will eat the fruit of your labor")
* [1 Timothy 6:17-19](/1_timothy/6-17-19 "Do good, be rich in good works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the imagery of lambs, goats, and fields might seem distant from modern urban life, the underlying principles of Proverbs 27:26 are profoundly timeless and universally applicable. This verse calls us to embrace a mindset of diligent stewardship, recognizing that our current resources, talents, and opportunities are not to be squandered but carefully managed to meet present needs and secure future well-being. It encourages a strong work ethic, reminding us that consistent effort often yields tangible returns that provide for our sustenance and allow for strategic investment. Beyond mere financial gain, it challenges us to cultivate foresight, resisting the urge for immediate gratification in favor of long-term planning and responsible allocation of resources. Whether it's managing our finances, developing our skills, nurturing relationships, or caring for our physical health, the proverb inspires us to be faithful in the "small things" so that greater provision and opportunities may emerge, ultimately fostering a life of stability, generosity, and purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life (finances, time, talents, relationships) am I called to be a more diligent steward?**
* **How does this proverb challenge my tendency towards immediate gratification versus long-term planning and investment?**
* **What "lambs" (current provisions) do I have that can be used for "clothing" (meeting immediate needs), and what "goats" (valuable assets) can be used to "price the field" (invest in future security or growth)?**

### FAQ

**Is this proverb only relevant to farmers or those in agrarian societies?**

Answer: No, while the imagery of [Proverbs 27:26](/proverbs/27-26 "Lambs for Clothing, Goats for Price of Field") is rooted in an ancient agrarian context, its underlying principles are universally applicable. The "lambs" and "goats" represent any valuable resources, assets, or income one possesses, while "clothing" signifies immediate needs and "the field" represents long-term security, investments, or future opportunities. The proverb teaches about diligent work, wise stewardship, and strategic planning, which are essential for flourishing in any economy or society. It encourages us to be attentive to our current responsibilities and to use our resources wisely for both present provision and future growth, whether we are managing a business, a household budget, or personal talents.

**How does this verse relate to modern financial planning and investment?**

Answer: [Proverbs 27:26](/proverbs/27-26 "Lambs for Clothing, Goats for Price of Field") provides foundational wisdom for modern financial planning. "Lambs for clothing" speaks to using current income or assets to cover essential living expenses and immediate needs. "Goats as the price of the field" powerfully illustrates the concept of investment and delayed gratification. It encourages using a portion of one's valuable assets (the "goats") not for immediate consumption, but to acquire something that will provide long-term security and potential growth (the "field"). This directly translates to principles like saving for retirement, investing in education or property, or building a business. It emphasizes that consistent, disciplined management of resources is key to building lasting wealth and security, rather than simply consuming all that is earned. The wisdom of [Proverbs 21:20](/proverbs/21-20 "Precious Treasure and Oil Are in a Wise Man's Dwelling") also reinforces this idea of wise accumulation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 27:26 speaks of earthly provision through diligent labor, it subtly points to a deeper, spiritual reality fulfilled in Christ. The "lambs" and "goats" that provide for clothing and the price of the field can be seen as types of the ultimate provision and redemption offered by God. In the Old Testament, lambs and goats were central to the sacrificial system, foreshadowing the perfect sacrifice. Jesus Christ is uniquely presented as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose ultimate sacrifice provides the spiritual "clothing" of righteousness for all who believe, covering our sin and shame ([Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "He has clothed me with garments of salvation")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the ultimate "price of the field"—not a field of earthly land, but the "field" of the world, for which He gave everything to redeem His people, much like the man who sold all he had to buy the [field with the hidden treasure](/matthew/13-44 "Parable of the Hidden Treasure"). His life, death, and resurrection are the invaluable payment that secures our eternal inheritance, the "heavenly country" ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "They desire a better country, a heavenly one")). Thus, the wisdom of Proverbs, which teaches diligence in managing earthly resources for temporal gain, ultimately finds its highest expression in Christ, who, through His ultimate sacrifice, provides for our eternal needs and secures our spiritual inheritance, far surpassing any earthly provision.

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

Job 31:20

If his loins have not blessed me, and [if] he were [not] warmed with the fleece of my sheep;