Proverbs 21:31 kjv

The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

Proverbs 21:31 nkjv

The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance is of the LORD.

Proverbs 21:31 niv

The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.

Proverbs 21:31 esv

The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Proverbs 21:31 nlt

The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Proverbs 21 verses

Proverbs 21 31 Meaning

The horse represents human foresight, preparation, and military might, signifying that people are diligent in planning and preparing for challenging circumstances or conflicts. However, the proverb asserts that ultimate deliverance, safety, and victory in these struggles come exclusively from the LORD. Human effort is necessary and commendable, but it is ultimately insufficient on its own, and the decisive outcome rests with divine providence.

Proverbs 21 31 Context

Proverbs 21:31 is part of a collection of Solomonic wisdom literature that emphasizes practical righteousness, the consequences of human actions, and God's sovereignty over all aspects of life. In its immediate context, chapter 21 highlights various aspects of righteous living, justice, and the Lord's dominion over human affairs, including kings' hearts (v. 1), wicked sacrifices (v. 27), and deceptive witnesses (v. 28). Historically and culturally, ancient Israel was surrounded by powerful empires where military strength, particularly chariots and horses, was seen as the ultimate source of security and victory. Many pagan nations relied on the strength of their armies and often attributed success in battle to their national deities. This verse stands in stark contrast, implicitly asserting a polemic against such reliance. It underscores the unique theological truth for Israel: true deliverance does not come from superior weaponry or human strategy, but from the exclusive power and will of Yahweh, their God. This principle subtly challenges the prevalent beliefs that power, wealth, or human ingenuity, independent of God, could secure one's destiny.

Proverbs 21 31 Word analysis

• The horse is prepared: The Hebrew word for "horse" is sûs (סוּס), a powerful animal associated with military strength, speed, and might in ancient warfare. "Prepared" comes from mûkān (מוּכָן), meaning "made ready," "established," or "appointed." It conveys meticulous human effort, foresight, and diligent organization for a specific purpose. This phrase acknowledges and even commends human responsibility and planning, recognizing the importance of strategic preparation in life's challenges.
• against the day of battle: The Hebrew term milḥāmāh (מִלְחָמָה) denotes "warfare," "battle," or "conflict." The phrase "day of battle" signifies a critical, often perilous, moment of confrontation or a major test. It implies situations where human effort is put to its maximum and consequences are significant.
• but safety is of the LORD: The Hebrew conjunction wĕ (וְ) "but" or "and," introduces a profound contrast. "Safety" translates yĕšūʿāh (יְשׁוּעָה), a rich term signifying "salvation," "deliverance," "help," or "victory." It encompasses ultimate success, rescue from danger, and well-being. This term is foundational to biblical theology, often used for God's redemptive acts. The preposition lĕ (לְ) attached to "LORD" (Yahweh) indicates origin, source, or belonging. It means "from," "of," or "belonging to."
• Words-group analysis:
  • The horse is prepared against the day of battle: This clause signifies the full extent of human planning, skill, and resourcefulness brought to bear on a crucial situation. It affirms that diligence and preparation are legitimate and necessary actions on our part. It represents the "what man can do" aspect.
  • but safety is of the LORD: This contrasting clause reveals the decisive truth: despite human efforts, the ultimate outcome, particularly deliverance or true victory, rests solely with God. It indicates that while we must act responsibly, our fate and success are in His sovereign hands. This highlights the "what only God can do" aspect and establishes Him as the exclusive source of genuine security and salvation.

Proverbs 21 31 Bonus section

This proverb encapsulates a key biblical paradox: God calls us to faithful stewardship of our abilities and resources, yet He retains ultimate control over all results. It warns against a secular humanism that trusts only in human ingenuity and might, reminding believers that even in meticulously executed plans, a decisive and independent variable, God’s sovereign will, determines the final outcome. The principle extends beyond warfare to any endeavor where success is sought. Whether preparing for an examination, launching a project, or facing personal challenges, the verse prompts believers to commit fully to preparation while resting in the assurance that genuine success and deliverance depend on the Lord’s good pleasure.

Proverbs 21 31 Commentary

Proverbs 21:31 is a profound statement on divine sovereignty juxtaposed with human responsibility. It neither encourages passive fatalism nor blind self-reliance. Instead, it teaches that while diligent preparation is a moral imperative—whether in battle, business, or daily life—it is never the guarantor of success or safety. Human strength and strategic planning, represented by the well-prepared horse, are limited. True victory, salvation, or genuine deliverance (yesha'ah) stems solely from the LORD. This wisdom guides individuals to undertake their duties with all their might while simultaneously entrusting the ultimate outcome to God's providence. It reminds us that our best efforts are inadequate without His divine favor and that boasting in human strength is folly. This verse calls for humility in our endeavors and unwavering faith in God's ultimate control, reinforcing that His plan will always prevail over ours.