Proverbs 30:24 kjv

There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:

Proverbs 30:24 nkjv

There are four things which are little on the earth, But they are exceedingly wise:

Proverbs 30:24 niv

"Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise:

Proverbs 30:24 esv

Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:

Proverbs 30:24 nlt

There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise:

Proverbs 30 verses

Proverbs 30 24 Meaning

Proverbs 30:24 introduces a category of creatures that, despite their diminutive size or apparent insignificance, demonstrate extraordinary wisdom. This verse serves as a preamble to specific examples, highlighting the principle that profound wisdom, often overlooked by human standards, is divinely embedded in the smallest parts of creation, offering powerful lessons to those who observe. It underscores that true wisdom is not solely a human attribute but a characteristic bestowed by the Creator, even upon the lowliest forms of life.

Proverbs 30 24 Context

Proverbs 30 is attributed to Agur, son of Jakeh, whose words appear distinct from much of the rest of the book typically associated with Solomon. Agur's discourse begins with a profound sense of humility before God's infinite knowledge, acknowledging his own lack of understanding of divine wisdom. He transitions into various sets of numerical proverbs, a literary device common in wisdom literature, where a specific number (often X+1) introduces a list of observations. Verse 24 inaugurates a quatrain (v. 24-28) focused on "four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise." This passage contrasts perceived insignificance with inherent wisdom, preparing the reader for the lessons drawn from ants, conies, locusts, and spiders in the subsequent verses. The historical and cultural context values astute observation of the natural world as a pathway to discerning divine principles for living, and Agur's words reflect this emphasis on empirical learning alongside spiritual truth. It subtly counteracts human pride and the tendency to look for wisdom only in grand or powerful displays, directing attention instead to God's wisdom evident even in the humble.

Proverbs 30 24 Word analysis

• four: The Hebrew word is 'arba' (אַרְבַּע). This is a precise numerical quantifier, signifying a deliberate and complete categorization that is about to follow. It sets up the pattern of the subsequent specific examples.
• things: While no single Hebrew word directly translates as "things" in this context, it is implied by the noun being qualified by "little" (creatures/species). The structure indicates specific items.
• which are: A connective phrase emphasizing the intrinsic nature of these items.
• little: The Hebrew term is q'ṭannîm (קְטַנִּים). This means small in size, insignificant, or humble. It creates a stark contrast with the concept of "wisdom" that follows, challenging human assumptions about where profound understanding resides. It points to creatures that are often overlooked or undervalued due to their physical dimensions.
• upon the earth: This phrase (עַל־הָאָרֶץ, 'al-hā'āreṣ) indicates their common, observable presence in the natural world, making them accessible subjects for human observation and learning. It roots the wisdom in practical, everyday existence.
• but: The conjunction (וְ, wə, 'and' or 'but') introduces a strong contrast or counterpoint to the preceding idea. It signals that what follows contradicts the initial impression of "little."
• they are: Reinforces the inherent quality or state of being.
• exceeding wise: The Hebrew phrase is məḥukkāmîm ḥakāmîm (מְחֻכָּמִים חֲכָמִים).
  • Məḥukkāmîm is a intensive form (Hophal participle) of the verb ḥakam (חָכַם), meaning "to be made wise" or "to be caused to be wise." It implies an intrinsic, divinely imparted quality, not just cleverness learned through experience. This points to a deeper, God-given sagacity.
  • Ḥakāmîm (חֲכָמִים) is the plural adjective "wise."
  • The repetition of the root ḥakam and the intensive verb form "made wise" preceding "wise" serves to greatly emphasize the degree and nature of their wisdom. It means they are profoundly, truly, even supernaturally, wise. Their wisdom is not superficial but deep-seated, reflecting their Creator's design.

Words-group analysis:

• "four things which are little": This group highlights humility and commonness. It draws the reader's attention away from the grand and powerful, towards the modest and overlooked, as sources of insight. It immediately sets up an expectation of paradox.
• "but they are exceeding wise": This crucial phrase creates the striking contrast and central theological point. It posits that inherent, profound wisdom is not correlated with size or apparent power. Instead, it is a characteristic imparted by the divine, visible in surprising and humble forms. This emphasizes God's ability to imbue even the smallest of His creations with remarkable prudence and skill.

Proverbs 30 24 Bonus section

• Observation as Wisdom's Path: The verse strongly promotes active observation of the natural world as a key path to understanding wisdom. Agur encourages readers to look beyond superficial appearances and discern the deeper principles at play.
• Divine Paradox: This verse introduces a recurring biblical theme where God's power and wisdom are most vividly displayed not in human might or grandeur, but through seemingly weak, humble, or despised means. This concept resonates strongly with New Testament theology concerning God choosing "the foolish things of the world to shame the wise" (1 Cor 1:27).
• Beyond Human Sagacity: The emphasis on "exceeding wise" suggests a wisdom that transcends simple human cleverness or learned behavior. It implies a divinely programmed intelligence, serving as a silent testimony to the Creator's design and foresight.
• Anti-Pride Polemic: In a subtle way, the verse serves as a polemic against human arrogance and pride, which might overlook or dismiss the "little things." It reminds humans that wisdom often originates from unexpected sources and humbles those who think they hold a monopoly on understanding.

Proverbs 30 24 Commentary

Proverbs 30:24 functions as a thesis statement for the subsequent four verses, which detail specific small creatures that embody profound wisdom. This verse challenges human-centric notions of intelligence and capability by redirecting attention to God's creation. The paradox is central: things physically small are intellectually or operationally "exceeding wise." This wisdom isn't merely instinct but reflects the Creator's own sagacity woven into the fabric of life. It implies that these humble beings conduct themselves with an effectiveness, foresight, and organization that ought to instruct humanity. The message is to observe and learn from these surprising examples, thereby recognizing the vast and often counter-intuitive nature of God's wisdom, which can make the weak strong and the foolish wise.