Proverbs 28:19

KJV

¶ He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain [persons] shall have poverty enough.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that tilleth {H5647} his land {H127} shall have plenty {H7646} of bread {H3899}: but he that followeth {H7291} after vain {H7386} persons shall have poverty enough {H7389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He who farms his land will have plenty of food, but he who follows futilities will have plenty of poverty.

Berean Standard Bible

The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.

American Standard Version

He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread; But he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 28:19 powerfully contrasts two distinct life paths, revealing the inevitable outcomes of diligent labor versus misguided associations. It asserts that consistent, productive engagement with one's responsibilities, metaphorically depicted as "tilling his land," unfailingly leads to abundant provision and security. Conversely, to pursue or align oneself with "vain persons"—individuals who are idle, frivolous, or lacking substance—results in an overwhelming and inescapable destitution, thereby underscoring the critical importance of both industry and discernment in one's life choices and relationships.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 28 is situated within the "Proverbs of Solomon," specifically the collection compiled by the men of Hezekiah (chapters 25-29). This chapter, like much of the book, is characterized by its extensive use of antithetical parallelism, a literary device that juxtaposes contrasting ideas or actions to highlight a moral or theological truth. Verse 19 serves as a prime example, presenting a clear dichotomy between two approaches to life and their predictable consequences. The surrounding verses consistently reinforce themes of righteousness versus wickedness, diligence versus sloth, and wisdom versus folly, making this proverb a concise encapsulation of broader wisdom principles. For instance, the preceding verse, [Proverbs 28:18](/proverbs/28-18 "Proverbs 28:18 - Integrity vs. Perversity"), speaks of the one who walks blamelessly being saved, while [Proverbs 28:20](/proverbs/28-20 "Proverbs 28:20 - Blessing of Faithfulness") praises the faithful man who abounds with blessings, thus reinforcing the overarching theme of consequences directly tied to one's character and actions.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, society was predominantly agrarian, making land the fundamental source of wealth, sustenance, and generational security. The act of "tilling his land" (עֹבֵד אֲדָמָה, *ʻōḇēḏ ʼădâmâ*) was not merely a profession but a foundational act of stewardship, demanding consistent effort, foresight, and resilience. The produce derived from the land directly translated into "bread," which was the essential staple of life. To neglect one's land was to invite famine and poverty, threatening the very survival of a household. Conversely, "vain persons" (רֵקִים, *rêqîm*) would have been readily recognized as those who were unproductive, shiftless, or engaged in frivolous activities, often associated with idleness, irresponsibility, or even banditry. Such individuals were considered a drain on society and a negative influence, capable of leading others astray from productive labor and stable community life. The proverb, therefore, speaks directly to the economic and social realities of its time, emphasizing virtues essential for survival and flourishing within that framework.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb powerfully articulates several core themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs, offering timeless insights into human flourishing. Firstly, it champions **Diligence and Industry**, presenting hard work as the direct and reliable pathway to material provision and abundance. This principle is echoed repeatedly throughout wisdom literature, as seen in [Proverbs 10:4](/proverbs/10-4 "Proverbs 10:4 - Diligence Brings Wealth"), which states, "He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich." Secondly, it issues a strong warning against the **Peril of Foolish Associations**, highlighting how one's chosen companions or pursuits can lead to ruin. The "vain persons" represent those who offer no substance or productive contribution, and to "follow after" them implies adopting their unproductive or destructive lifestyle. This theme is crucial in wisdom literature, with [Proverbs 13:20](/proverbs/13-20 "Proverbs 13:20 - Companionship and Consequences") famously declaring, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." Finally, the verse underscores the overarching theme of the **Consequences of Choices**, demonstrating the direct, often immediate, results of living wisely versus foolishly, emphasizing personal responsibility for one's destiny.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **tilleth (Hebrew, _ʻâbad'_):** From H5647, a primitive root meaning "to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc." In this context, it specifically refers to the diligent and laborious act of cultivating the land. It implies dedicated service to the earth, a commitment to productive labor, and active engagement with one's responsibilities, embodying not merely passive ownership but active, ongoing stewardship and effort in one's calling.
* **vain (Hebrew, _rêyq'_):** From H7386, meaning "empty; figuratively, worthless." This term describes individuals who are devoid of substance, purpose, or productive habits. They are idle, frivolous, or engaged in pursuits that yield no lasting value. To "follow after" such persons implies adopting their empty ways, pursuing their unproductive activities, or being influenced by their lack of discipline and foresight, leading to a life that is ultimately barren.
* **poverty (Hebrew, _rêysh'_):** From H7389, meaning "poverty." This word denotes a state of destitution, lack, or material want. The phrase "poverty enough" (literally "satiated with poverty," using the root of H7646, *sâbaʻ*, for "plenty" or "satiate") is a stark and ironic expression. It suggests an abundance of destitution—a complete and overwhelming lack that satisfies nothing but the dire consequences of foolish choices and unproductive living.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread:"** This clause establishes a foundational principle of cause and effect: diligent, sustained effort in productive labor leads to abundant provision. "Tilling his land" serves as a powerful metaphor for disciplined work, responsible stewardship, and wisely investing one's energy and resources. The outcome, "plenty of bread," signifies not just basic sustenance but a surplus, a state of satisfaction and security that naturally arises from consistent, hard work and adherence to God's created order.
* **"but he that followeth after vain [persons] shall have poverty enough."** This contrasting clause presents the antithetical path and its dire consequence. "Following after vain [persons]" implies a pursuit of idleness, trivialities, or unproductive associations. It is a deliberate choice to align oneself with those who lack substance, purpose, or a strong work ethic. The result is "poverty enough"—an ironic and severe outcome where one is "filled" or "satiated" with destitution, highlighting the complete and overwhelming nature of the lack that results from such foolish choices and misdirected priorities.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Proverbs 28:19 is **Antithetical Parallelism**. This structure is characteristic of Hebrew wisdom literature, where two contrasting lines or clauses are presented to highlight a moral or theological truth. Here, the diligence of "tilling his land" is directly contrasted with the folly of "following after vain persons," and their respective outcomes—"plenty of bread" versus "poverty enough"—are starkly opposed to emphasize the clear choice and its consequences. The use of **Metaphor** is also evident, with "tilling his land" serving as a concrete, agrarian image for any form of diligent, productive labor, and "bread" representing general provision and well-being. The phrase "poverty enough" employs both **Irony** and **Hyperbole**, as it describes a state of being "filled" or "satiated" not with abundance, but with the very thing one wishes to avoid—poverty, thereby emphasizing the utter completeness and severity of the destitution.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 28:19 deeply embeds itself within the biblical understanding of divine order, where God has structured the world to reward diligence and prudence while bringing consequences upon idleness and folly. It reflects a theology of creation that affirms work as a good and necessary part of human existence, designed for human flourishing. The "plenty of bread" is not merely a natural outcome but a blessing within God's established order for those who apply themselves faithfully. Conversely, the "poverty enough" for those who pursue "vain persons" speaks to the moral and spiritual bankruptcy that accompanies a life devoid of purpose and productive engagement, often exacerbated by negative influences. This proverb, therefore, is not just about economic principles but about living in alignment with God's wisdom for a flourishing life, both materially and spiritually, recognizing that our choices reflect our reverence for His design.

* [Proverbs 12:11](/proverbs/12-11 "Tilling Land vs. Vain Pursuits")
* [Proverbs 14:23](/proverbs/14-23 "Hard Work Brings Profit")
* [Proverbs 20:4](/proverbs/20-4 "The Sluggard's Harvest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 28:19 offers timeless wisdom that transcends its ancient agrarian setting, speaking directly to the choices we make regarding our labor and our relationships in any era. In a world often seeking shortcuts, instant gratification, or passive consumption, this proverb firmly grounds us in the reality that sustained, diligent effort in our callings—whether professional, familial, academic, or spiritual—is the pathway to true and lasting provision and fulfillment. It challenges us to honestly assess where we are investing our time, energy, and talents. Are we "tilling our land" with dedication and foresight, or are we allowing ourselves to be distracted by "vain pursuits" and unproductive associations that promise much but deliver only emptiness? The proverb serves as a powerful reminder that our social circles profoundly shape our character, habits, and ultimately, our destiny. Choosing companions who are idle, frivolous, or without purpose can subtly erode our own discipline, focus, and drive, leading to spiritual and material scarcity. Therefore, wisdom calls us to cultivate a strong work ethic, to embrace diligent stewardship of our God-given resources, and to intentionally surround ourselves with individuals who inspire growth, productivity, and godly character, ensuring a life of true abundance and purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life am I "tilling my land" with diligence, and where might I be neglecting my responsibilities or potential?**
* **Who are the "vain persons" or what are the "vain pursuits" in my life that might be subtly leading me towards spiritual or material "poverty enough"?**
* **How can I be more intentional about choosing relationships and activities that foster productivity, wisdom, and spiritual growth, rather than hindering it?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to cultivate greater diligence in my work, studies, relationships, or personal disciplines, aligning my efforts with God's design for flourishing?**

### FAQ
**Does "tilling his land" only refer to physical farming?**

Answer: No, while the proverb uses an agricultural metaphor rooted in the ancient agrarian society of Israel, the principle of "tilling his land" extends far beyond physical farming. It represents any form of diligent, consistent, and productive labor or responsible stewardship in one's life. This could apply to a professional career, academic studies, managing a household, nurturing relationships, developing personal talents, or even cultivating one's spiritual life. The core message is that sustained effort and responsible engagement in one's sphere of influence lead to positive, abundant outcomes, just as a farmer's diligent work yields a harvest. The wisdom here is universal, emphasizing the value of a strong work ethic and purposeful engagement in any endeavor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 28:19 speaks to the principles of diligence and wise association for earthly prosperity, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning are found in Christ. Jesus, the embodiment of divine wisdom, perfectly "tilled the land" of God's will, diligently pursuing His Father's mission with unwavering focus and purpose. He was never found "following after vain persons" or engaging in frivolous pursuits; rather, He consistently sought to do the will of Him who sent Him, even to the point of death on the cross (cf. [John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is Doing God's Will") and [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). His "tilling" involved sowing the seeds of the Kingdom, healing the sick, teaching the multitudes, and ultimately offering Himself as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Through His diligent obedience and sacrificial work, He brought forth not merely "plenty of bread" for physical sustenance, but the abundant spiritual life and eternal provision for all who believe (cf. [John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life in Christ")). In Christ, we find the ultimate "bread of life" (cf. [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), and by "following after" Him, the true and substantial One, we are led away from the "poverty enough" of sin and futility into the immeasurable riches of God's grace and glory (cf. [Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood")). Thus, the proverb points to the spiritual diligence required to follow Christ and the eternal abundance that results from His finished work on our behalf.

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

Proverbs 12:11

¶ He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain [persons is] void of understanding.

Luke 15:12

And the younger of them said to [his] father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth [to me]. And he divided unto them [his] living.

Luke 15:17

And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

Proverbs 27:23

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

Proverbs 27:27

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

Judges 9:4

And they gave him threescore and ten [pieces] of silver out of the house of Baalberith, wherewith Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him.

Proverbs 23:20

Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: