Proverbs 13:23

¶ Much food [is in] the tillage of the poor: but there is [that is] destroyed for want of judgment.

Much {H7230} food {H400} is in the tillage {H5215} of the poor {H7218}{H7326}: but there is {H3426} that is destroyed {H5595} for want {H3808} of judgment {H4941}.

The fields of the poor may yield much food, but some are swept away because of injustice.

Abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poor, but without justice it is swept away.

Much foodis inthe tillage of the poor; But there is that is destroyed by reason of injustice.

Commentary

Proverbs 13:23 offers a profound observation on diligence, potential, and the critical role of wisdom in managing resources.

Context

The book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon, designed to impart practical wisdom for daily living. It often presents sharp contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, the wise and the foolish, and the consequences of their respective paths. This verse fits well within this framework, highlighting how effort can lead to abundance, but a lack of discernment can lead to ruin.

Meaning and Key Themes

  • Diligence and Potential: The first part, "Much food is in the tillage of the poor," emphasizes the incredible potential that lies in hard work and cultivation, even for those with seemingly few resources. "Tillage" (Hebrew: nir), refers to cultivated land or the act of breaking ground, suggesting that diligent effort, even from humble beginnings, can yield significant fruit. It speaks to the dignity of labor and the inherent productivity of honest effort. This principle resonates with other proverbs that extol the virtues of diligence, such as Proverbs 10:4, which states that "The hand of the diligent maketh rich."
  • The Peril of Poor Judgment: The second part, "but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment," serves as a stark contrast. It warns that even great potential or existing abundance can be squandered and lost due to a lack of "judgment" (Hebrew: mishpat), which in this context refers to wisdom, discernment, sound planning, or proper management. This highlights that mere possession of resources or opportunities is not enough; wise stewardship and prudent decision-making are essential for sustaining and maximizing what one has. This echoes warnings against foolishness seen in verses like Proverbs 24:30-34, describing the field of the sluggard.
  • Stewardship and Responsibility: The verse subtly underscores the importance of good stewardship. Whether it's land, finances, talents, or opportunities, their ultimate fruitfulness depends on how they are managed. Without wisdom, even bountiful provisions can be wasted.

Linguistic Insights

The term "tillage" (nir) implies breaking new ground or cultivation, highlighting the transformative power of labor. "Judgment" (mishpat) here points to the practical application of wisdom in decision-making and administration, rather than legal decree, emphasizing discernment and prudent action.

Practical Application

Proverbs 13:23 offers timeless wisdom for modern life:

  • Empowerment for the Diligent: It encourages those who feel disadvantaged or have limited resources that their hard work is not in vain. Diligence, even in humble circumstances, can lead to substantial provision and success.
  • The Necessity of Wisdom: It serves as a crucial reminder that effort alone is insufficient. Good ideas, hard work, and valuable resources can all be undone by poor planning, impulsive decisions, or a lack of foresight. This applies to personal finance, business ventures, relationships, and even spiritual growth. Seeking and applying wisdom is paramount to ensure that efforts yield lasting fruit rather than being "destroyed."
  • Valuing Discernment: The verse compels us to prioritize gaining and applying sound judgment in all areas of life. This involves thoughtful consideration, seeking counsel, and learning from experience, all of which are central themes in the book of Proverbs.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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 12:11 (6 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 28:19 (5 votes)

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

  • Ecclesiastes 5:9 (4 votes)

    ¶ Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king [himself] is served by the field.

  • Ecclesiastes 8:5 (3 votes)

    Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.

  • Ecclesiastes 8:6 (3 votes)

    ¶ Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man [is] great upon him.

  • Psalms 112:5 (3 votes)

    A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.

  • Proverbs 27:23 (2 votes)

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