Proverbs 6:6

¶ Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

Go {H3212} to the ant {H5244}, thou sluggard {H6102}; consider {H7200} her ways {H1870}, and be wise {H2449}:

Go to the ant, you lazybones! Consider its ways, and be wise.

Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise.

Go to the ant, thou sluggard; Consider her ways, and be wise:

Commentary

Proverbs 6:6 offers a concise yet powerful exhortation to diligence, using a common insect as a profound teacher. It directly addresses the "sluggard," urging them to observe the ant and learn valuable lessons about hard work and foresight.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Proverbs (chapters 6-7) where Solomon, or the wise teacher, issues warnings against various destructive behaviors, including idleness, suretyship, and adultery. The immediate context of verses 6-11 specifically targets the pitfalls of laziness, contrasting the diligent nature of the ant with the unproductive habits of the "sluggard." Proverbs frequently draws wisdom from everyday observations and the natural world, making complex truths accessible and memorable.

Key Themes

  • Diligence and Industry: The ant serves as a prime example of sustained effort and diligent work. It gathers its food in season, preparing for future needs without needing external supervision or prompting. This highlights the virtue of being proactive and industrious.
  • Wisdom from Creation: The passage encourages learning from God's creation. The natural world, even seemingly insignificant creatures like the ant, holds profound lessons about life, responsibility, and the consequences of actions. The call to "consider her ways" is an invitation to thoughtful observation and self-improvement.
  • Foresight and Planning: Ants are known for their ability to store food during harvest time to sustain themselves through leaner seasons. This illustrates the importance of planning for the future and preparing for times of scarcity, a stark contrast to the sluggard's short-sightedness. This theme of preparation and planning is a vital aspect of biblical wisdom regarding prosperity.
  • Consequences of Laziness: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the implication for the sluggard is clear: failure to adopt the ant's diligence will lead to poverty and want, a theme further elaborated in Proverbs 6:9-11.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Sluggard" (Hebrew: `atsel` - עָצֵל): This term denotes someone who is habitually lazy, sluggish, or idle, characterized by a reluctance to work or exert effort. It's not just a temporary state but a settled disposition.
  • "Consider her ways" (Hebrew: `re'eh derakheha` - רְאֵה דְרָכֶיהָ): This phrase is an imperative, meaning "look at," "observe," or "contemplate her paths/habits." It suggests a careful, thoughtful examination designed to lead to personal understanding and change.

Practical Application

Proverbs 6:6 remains highly relevant today, serving as a powerful reminder for anyone struggling with procrastination, lack of motivation, or idleness. It encourages:

  • Self-Motivation: We are called to be self-starters, taking initiative in our work, studies, and responsibilities without constant external prodding.
  • Diligence in All Areas: The principle applies not only to professional work but also to personal growth, spiritual disciplines, and managing household affairs. Just as the ant prepares for the future, we are encouraged to be diligent in stewarding our resources and opportunities.
  • Learning from the World Around Us: The verse invites us to be observant and humble enough to learn from even the smallest parts of creation, recognizing that God's wisdom is displayed everywhere. This echoes the broader biblical teaching that God's invisible attributes are clearly seen in creation.
  • Avoiding Procrastination: The ant's consistent effort, gathering food "in the summer" and "in the harvest," is a direct challenge to the tendency to put off necessary tasks until it's too late.

Ultimately, this verse is a call to practical wisdom and responsible living, highlighting the dignity and reward found in diligent effort.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 20:4 (18 votes)

    ¶ The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; [therefore] shall he beg in harvest, and [have] nothing.

  • Proverbs 18:9 (16 votes)

    ¶ He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

  • Proverbs 6:9 (15 votes)

    How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?

  • Hebrews 6:12 (13 votes)

    That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

  • Proverbs 13:4 (13 votes)

    ¶ The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

  • Proverbs 30:25 (12 votes)

    The ants [are] a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;

  • Matthew 25:26 (12 votes)

    His lord answered and said unto him, [Thou] wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: