Proverbs 30:26

KJV

The conies [are but] a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;

KJV (with Strong's)

The conies {H8227} are but a feeble {H6099} folk {H5971}, yet make {H7760} they their houses {H1004} in the rocks {H5553};

Complete Jewish Bible

the coneys, a species with little power, yet they make their home in the rocks;

Berean Standard Bible

the rock badgers are creatures of little power, yet they make their homes in the rocks;

American Standard Version

The conies are but a feeble folk, Yet make they their houses in the rocks;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 30:26, a profound observation from Agur's collection of wisdom, unveils the remarkable sagacity of the conies, or rock hyraxes. Despite their inherent physical vulnerability and perceived weakness, these small creatures instinctively demonstrate profound resourcefulness and prudence by establishing their dwellings within the impregnable security of rocky cliffs. This serves as a powerful and enduring analogy for humanity's deep-seated need to find refuge, strength, and ultimate security in an unshakeable and reliable source.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of "The words of Agur son of Jakeh" (Proverbs 30:1), a distinct section within the book of Proverbs that often employs numerical sayings, riddles, and keen observations of the natural world to convey spiritual and practical truths. Specifically, Proverbs 30:24-28 forms a numerical proverb, enumerating "four things which are little upon the earth, but are exceeding wise." The conies are presented as the second of these four creatures, following the diligent ants (as seen in [Proverbs 30:25](/proverbs/30-25 "Proverbs 30:25 - The Wisdom of Ants")) and preceding the disciplined locusts and the resourceful spider. Each creature, despite its diminutive size or perceived lack of power, exemplifies a particular facet of wisdom that offers a moral and theological lesson for humanity. This structured presentation underscores the pervasive nature of wisdom, demonstrating that it is not exclusive to the mighty or the grand but can be discerned and learned even from the seemingly insignificant aspects of creation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "conies" (Hebrew: *shâphân*) are widely identified as the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis), a small, social, herbivorous mammal indigenous to the rocky and arid regions of the Middle East and Africa. Unlike rabbits, to which they bear a superficial resemblance, hyraxes are not rodents but belong to the order Hyracoidea, more closely related to elephants and manatees. They are known for their timid and defenseless nature when exposed, and their characteristic behavior of seeking shelter and dwelling in the crevices, caves, and fissures of rocky cliffs and mountainsides. This provides them with natural protection from a host of predators, including eagles, leopards, and snakes. The description of them as "feeble folk" (Hebrew: *ʻam loʻ-ʻâtsûwm*, literally "a people not mighty" or "a nation without strength") accurately reflects their lack of physical defenses. The "rocks" (Hebrew: *çelaʻ*) refer to craggy, unyielding geological formations, which in the ancient Near East were often synonymous with fortresses, strongholds, and places of secure refuge. The observation of the hyraxes' adaptive and survival-oriented behavior would have been a common and relatable sight, serving as a vivid illustration of practical wisdom in a challenging and often dangerous environment.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 30:26 significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent within the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical wisdom tradition. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Wisdom in Weakness**. The conies, though physically vulnerable, possess an innate wisdom that enables their survival and flourishing. This paradox highlights that true strength and security are often found not in inherent might, but in recognizing one's limitations and strategically seeking appropriate refuge. Secondly, the verse exemplifies **Resourcefulness and Prudence**. Despite their defenselessness, the conies exhibit remarkable foresight and intelligent adaptation by instinctively choosing the most secure natural defenses available. This proactive approach to self-preservation teaches the critical importance of wise planning and preparation in the face of adversity. Thirdly, the proverb subtly introduces the profound theme of **Finding Refuge**. The "rocks" serve as a potent and enduring symbol of a secure dwelling, sanctuary, or haven. The conies' ability to establish their homes in such impregnable places points to the universal human need for a reliable and unshakeable haven, a concept frequently echoed throughout Scripture where God Himself is depicted as a refuge and fortress for His people (e.g., [Psalm 9:9](/psalms/9-9 "Psalm 9:9 - God as a Refuge for the Oppressed") and [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")). Finally, the natural wisdom observed in these seemingly insignificant creatures points to **God's Intricate Design and Providential Care** in creation, where even the smallest beings are equipped with instincts necessary for survival and can serve as profound teachers of divine truth (cf. [Job 12:7-8](/job/12-7-8 "Job 12:7-8 - Learning Wisdom from Creation")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **conies (Hebrew, _shâphân'_):** This term, derived from the root *sâphan* (meaning "to hide" or "to cover"), refers to the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis). The name itself is indicative of the animal's nature, underscoring its timid disposition and its reliance on concealment and secure dwelling places for survival. The KJV's "coney" is an older English term for rabbit, but the animal described is specifically the hyrax, known for inhabiting rocky crevices and being physically defenseless.
* **feeble (Hebrew, _ʻâtsûwm'_):** While this word typically signifies "powerful," "mighty," or "numerous," it is used here in the negative ("not mighty" or "not strong") in conjunction with "folk" (Hebrew, *ʻam*). This usage emphasizes the conies' inherent physical weakness and their lack of defensive capabilities. They are not a "mighty people" in terms of strength or numbers that could deter predators, thus highlighting the striking contrast with their wise choice of dwelling.
* **rocks (Hebrew, _çelaʻ'_):** This term denotes a craggy rock, a cliff, or a massive rock formation, often implying a natural fortress or stronghold. Unlike a simple stone (*'eben*), *çelaʻ* refers to a substantial, unyielding geological feature that offers natural protection and inaccessibility. The conies' profound wisdom is precisely in their choice of these impregnable natural defenses, transforming their inherent vulnerability into a secure existence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The conies [are but] a feeble folk":** This initial clause establishes the inherent vulnerability and lack of physical power characteristic of the conies. They are not endowed with strength, numerical superiority, or natural defenses such as formidable claws, sharp teeth, or swiftness to evade predators. This declaration sets up a striking contrast, making their subsequent action all the more remarkable and illustrative of profound wisdom. It underscores their physical insignificance and defenselessness within the natural order.
* **"yet make they their houses in the rocks;":** This second clause introduces the profound wisdom and strategic intelligence of the conies. Despite their feebleness, they instinctively compensate for their weakness by choosing the most secure and inaccessible dwelling places available – the solid, unyielding rocks. This act demonstrates remarkable foresight, resourcefulness, and prudence, transforming their inherent vulnerability into a strategic advantage and ensuring their survival. Their "houses" are not constructed through physical might, but through strategic placement within existing, natural fortresses, thereby providing impenetrable security.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 30:26 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound truth and enduring lesson. The most prominent is **Paradox**, where the seemingly contradictory nature of the conies – being "feeble" yet demonstrating remarkable "wisdom" by constructing secure "houses in the rocks" – creates a striking and memorable teaching moment. This paradox powerfully highlights that true wisdom is not contingent upon physical strength or inherent power, but upon discerning and acting upon what provides genuine and lasting security. **Symbolism** is also central to the verse, with the "rocks" serving as a potent symbol of refuge, stability, and impregnable security. This imagery resonates deeply within biblical tradition, where God Himself is frequently described as a rock and fortress. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Observation and Analogy**, drawing a spiritual and practical lesson from a keen and accurate observation of the natural world. Agur presents the conies as an **exemplum**, a concrete example from creation that illustrates a universal truth about prudence, self-awareness, and the strategic choice of one's dwelling place, thereby inviting the reader to apply this natural wisdom to their own lives and circumstances.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The wisdom of the conies, finding their secure refuge in the unyielding rocks despite their inherent weakness, serves as a powerful theological metaphor for humanity's relationship with God. Just as the physically defenseless hyraxes instinctively seek the most secure natural fortresses, so too are believers called to find their ultimate strength, security, and dwelling place in the Lord. This proverb subtly teaches that true wisdom for the "feeble folk" of humanity lies not in self-reliance, worldly strength, or human ingenuity alone, but in acknowledging our inherent limitations and strategically placing our trust and lives in the unshakeable refuge of God. He is the ultimate Rock, a steadfast and unchanging sanctuary in a world fraught with dangers, uncertainties, and spiritual adversaries. In Him, we find an enduring haven that no earthly power can penetrate or destroy.

* [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord as My Rock and Fortress")
* [Psalm 62:7](/psalms/62-7 "Psalm 62:7 - God as My Rock of Strength")
* [Deuteronomy 32:4](/deuteronomy/32-4 "Deuteronomy 32:4 - God the Rock, Perfect in Work")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 30:26 offers profound encouragement and practical guidance for individuals who may feel weak, inadequate, or vulnerable in a challenging and often overwhelming world. It serves as a powerful reminder that our physical strength, social status, intellectual prowess, or worldly resources do not ultimately determine our capacity for true wisdom or our access to ultimate security. Instead, the wisdom exemplified by the conies calls us to embrace a posture of humility and strategic dependence. We are called to acknowledge our inherent limitations and not to rely solely on our own strength or self-sufficiency. The true wisdom, therefore, lies in discerning where genuine safety and enduring strength can be found. For the believer, this points unmistakably to God Himself, who is our ultimate Rock and Fortress. Just as the conies diligently make their homes in the rocks, we are called to intentionally "make our homes" in God through faith, consistent obedience, and fervent prayer, finding our refuge, stability, and peace in His unchanging character and unfailing promises. This proverb encourages proactive prudence, reminding us that even small, deliberate choices to align ourselves with God's will and seek His protection can lead to profound and lasting security in the face of life's most formidable dangers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you currently feel most "feeble" or vulnerable, and how do you typically respond to these feelings?**
* **How does the example of the conies challenge your preconceived notions of where true strength and security originate?**
* **What practical and intentional steps can you take this week to "make your house in the rocks" by seeking greater refuge and strength in God's presence and promises?**
* **In what ways might acknowledging your limitations and dependence on God actually become a pathway to greater wisdom, peace, and enduring security in your life?**

### FAQ

**What exactly are "conies" in the Bible?**

Answer: In Proverbs 30:26, the "conies" (Hebrew: *shâphân*) refer to the rock hyrax, a small, herbivorous mammal native to the Middle East and Africa. Although often mistaken for rabbits due to their appearance, they are biologically distinct and are more closely related to elephants and manatees. They are known for their timid nature and their habit of living in rocky crevices and caves, which provide them natural protection from predators.

**What does it mean that the conies are a "feeble folk"?**

Answer: The phrase "feeble folk" (Hebrew: *ʻam loʻ-ʻâtsûwm*) literally translates to "a people not mighty" or "a nation without strength." This emphasizes the rock hyrax's physical defenselessness. They lack the size, speed, or natural weapons to fend off predators. Their wisdom is highlighted precisely because, despite this inherent weakness, they demonstrate remarkable ingenuity in securing their survival by choosing an impregnable dwelling place.

**How do the "rocks" symbolize security in this proverb?**

Answer: The "rocks" (Hebrew: *çelaʻ*) in this proverb symbolize natural fortresses and places of ultimate security. Unlike open ground, rocky cliffs and crevices offer impenetrable protection from predators and the elements. The conies' wisdom lies in their instinct to utilize these unyielding geological formations as their homes, transforming their vulnerability into a strategic advantage. This imagery resonates with broader biblical themes where God Himself is often referred to as a "Rock" of refuge and strength, providing ultimate security to those who trust in Him (e.g., [Psalm 31:2](/psalms/31-2 "Psalm 31:2 - Be My Rock of Refuge")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 30:26, with its vivid imagery of the feeble conies finding security in the unyielding rocks, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Humanity, in its spiritual feebleness and utter vulnerability to the pervasive power of sin and the inevitability of death, is the "feeble folk" of this proverb. We inherently lack the strength, righteousness, or ability to overcome our spiritual enemies or secure our eternal dwelling. However, Christ stands as the ultimate "Rock" – the solid, immutable foundation upon which all true security, salvation, and eternal life are built. He is the "spiritual Rock" that accompanied Israel in the wilderness, from whom they drank living water (1 [Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ, the Spiritual Rock")), and the precious cornerstone, rejected by human builders but chosen and honored by God (1 [Peter 2:7](/1_peter/2-7 "1 Peter 2:7 - Christ, the Cornerstone")). Just as the conies wisely make their homes in the physical rocks, believers are called to build their entire lives upon Christ, hearing His words and diligently putting them into practice, thereby constructing a spiritual house that will stand firm against the fiercest storms and trials of life (cf. [Matthew 7:24-25](/matthew/7-24-25 "Matthew 7:24-25 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")). In Him, our inherent weakness is exchanged for His divine strength, our profound vulnerability for His impenetrable refuge, and our fleeting, mortal lives for an eternal dwelling secured by His finished work on the cross. He is our unshakeable sanctuary, providing perfect peace, enduring hope, and eternal safety for all who take faithful refuge in Him (cf. [Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - Refuge in Hope")).

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

Psalms 104:18

The high hills [are] a refuge for the wild goats; [and] the rocks for the conies.

Leviticus 11:5

And the coney, because he cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof; he [is] unclean unto you.