Proverbs 30:25 kjv

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

Proverbs 30:25 nkjv

The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their food in the summer;

Proverbs 30:25 niv

Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer;

Proverbs 30:25 esv

the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;

Proverbs 30:25 nlt

Ants ? they aren't strong,
but they store up food all summer.

Proverbs 30 verses

Proverbs 30 25 Meaning

Proverbs 30:25 highlights the extraordinary wisdom of the ant, a small and seemingly weak creature, by pointing to its diligent preparation of food during the summer months. This verse emphasizes foresight, industriousness, and responsible planning as a source of strength, contrasting physical might with practical wisdom and self-governance. It presents the ant as a natural teacher demonstrating the principles of preparing for future needs during times of abundance.

Proverbs 30 25 Context

Proverbs chapter 30 is attributed to Agur, son of Jakeh, whose identity remains largely unknown, suggesting wisdom can come from unexpected sources. This specific verse (30:25) is part of a distinct section (verses 24-28) which describes "four things that are small on the earth, but are exceedingly wise." Following a discourse on God's transcendent wisdom and the purity of His word (v. 1-6) and a plea for integrity (v. 7-9), Agur presents a series of observational proverbs, contrasting with earlier, more direct injunctions. The natural world serves as a silent instructor, embodying principles of divine design. The "small" creatures are chosen to demonstrate that greatness is not tied to size or strength, but to wise, divinely instilled instincts and behavior. The ant, in particular, illustrates practical foresight, diligence, and organized effort—qualities universally admired in wisdom literature.

Proverbs 30 25 Word analysis

• The ants (נְמָלִים, nəmalim): Derived from a root perhaps meaning "to cut off" or "to move quickly." These tiny, often overlooked insects are chosen to represent humility and the absence of imposing power. Their wisdom is therefore internal, not dependent on external force. They symbolize collective intelligence and instinctive obedience to natural laws ordained by the Creator.
• are a people (עַם, ʿam): This term usually refers to a nation or community of humans. Applying it to ants dignifies their organized behavior and communal structure, likening their societal functions to those of human societies. It implies self-governance, social order, and shared purpose without needing an external ruler (as highlighted in Prov 6:7).
• not strong (לֹא עָזוּז, lo ʿazuz): Emphasizes their physical weakness. Their success does not stem from brute force but from their strategic planning and relentless industry. This highlights a paradox: true strength often lies not in physical might, but in disciplined effort and wise foresight, even when inherently disadvantaged.
• yet they prepare (יָכִינוּ, yakinu): From the verb root כּוּן (kun), meaning "to establish, prepare, make firm." It denotes proactive, purposeful action. The ants actively and deliberately get ready for future circumstances, not by chance or external compulsion, but by an internal drive.
• their food (לַחְמָם, laḥmam): Literally "their bread." This refers to their necessary provisions for survival. The focus is on basic needs, teaching practical, essential planning rather than grand, elaborate schemes.
• in the summer (בַּקַּיִץ, bakkaiyits): Refers to the season of warmth, sunshine, and abundance. This is the optimal time for gathering, as resources are plentiful. It underscores the importance of timeliness and leveraging favorable conditions. Waiting until winter (the time of scarcity) would be foolish; therefore, diligent action must occur during the opportune period.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "The ants are a people not strong": This phrase establishes a fundamental paradox. Though individually weak and lacking a hierarchical leader, the ants demonstrate a form of collective strength derived from their self-motivated, disciplined, and organized approach. This counters the human tendency to rely on raw power or explicit command structures for effective operation. Their "people-like" social organization makes up for their individual lack of strength.
• "yet they prepare their food in the summer": This highlights the practical application of their innate wisdom. They understand the cycle of seasons and proactively store resources during abundance to sustain themselves during times of scarcity. This directly points to the principle of foresight, hard work, and responsible stewardship of present opportunities for future well-being. It is a lesson in delayed gratification and planning ahead.

Proverbs 30 25 Bonus section

The selection of the ant as an exemplar among the "small" wise creatures (alongside the conies, locusts, and lizard) emphasizes that profound wisdom is not confined to the great or powerful but is often manifested in humble and often overlooked parts of creation. This underlines a common biblical theme that God often uses the "weak things of the world to shame the strong" (1 Cor 1:27). The ant's wisdom is not learned knowledge in the human sense but an instinctual, embedded understanding of God's design and natural order. Its behavior thus serves as a powerful, undeniable testament to God's wisdom inherent in creation itself, reminding humanity to observe and emulate these God-given patterns of industry and foresight. This divine programming highlights a foundational truth: obedience to wise principles, whether innate or learned, is far more valuable than inherent strength or status.

Proverbs 30 25 Commentary

Proverbs 30:25 provides a concise yet profound commentary on practical wisdom by drawing a lesson from the humble ant. Agur holds up this tiny creature not just as an example of industriousness, but as a silent sage for humanity. The essence of the verse lies in the stark contrast between the ant's lack of physical strength and its incredible success in securing its future. This success is entirely due to foresight and diligence during opportune times ("in the summer").

The verse subtly critiques human laziness and procrastination by showcasing an instinctual, unwavering dedication in the ant. There is no external "chief, officer, or ruler" dictating its labor (as mentioned in Prov 6:7); the ant is self-governed by an innate, divinely imparted wisdom that prioritizes future needs over present comfort. It works systematically, recognizing that periods of abundance are not permanent and must be utilized to prepare for leaner times. This principle transcends mere physical sustenance, urging a spiritual and intellectual preparation as well, making the most of "summers" of grace or opportunity before the "winters" of hardship arrive. The ant's seemingly insignificant actions accumulate to create significant provision, teaching us that consistent, prudent effort, however small each step, yields great returns.

Example for practical usage:

• A student studying consistently each day (in their academic "summer") to be prepared for exams, rather than cramming last minute.
• A Christian investing in spiritual disciplines like prayer and Bible study (in times of peace and clarity) to build their spiritual resilience for future trials or temptations.