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Proverbs 30 The Sayings of Agur

1 Sayings of Agur
The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh—an oracle:
This man declared to Ithiel,
to Ithiel and to Ucal:

2 “I am the most ignorant of men;
I do not have a man’s understanding.

3 I have not learned wisdom,
nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.

4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down?
Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands?
Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is his name, and the name of his son?
Tell me if you know!

5 “Every word of God is flawless;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

6 Do not add to his words,
or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.

7 “Two things I ask of you, O Lord;
do not refuse me before I die:

8 Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.

9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you
and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’
Or I may become poor and steal,
and so dishonor the name of my God.

10 “Do not slander a servant to his master,
or he will curse you, and you will pay for it.

11 “There are those who curse their fathers
and do not bless their mothers;

12 those who are pure in their own eyes
and yet are not cleansed of their filth;

13 those whose eyes are ever so haughty,
whose glances are so disdainful;

14 those whose teeth are swords
and whose jaws are set with knives
to devour the poor from the earth,
the needy from among mankind.

15 “The leech has two daughters.
‘Give! Give!’ they cry.
“There are three things that are never satisfied,
four that never say, ‘Enough!’:

16 the grave, the barren womb,
land, which is never satisfied with water,
and fire, which never says, ‘Enough!’

17 “The eye that mocks a father,
that scorns obedience to a mother,
will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley,
will be eaten by the vultures.

18 “There are three things that are too amazing for me,
four that I do not understand:

19 the way of an eagle in the sky,
the way of a snake on a rock,
the way of a ship on the high seas,
and the way of a man with a maiden.

20 “This is the way of an adulteress:
She eats and wipes her mouth
and says, ‘I’ve done nothing wrong.’

21 “Under three things the earth trembles,
under four it cannot bear up:

22 a servant who becomes king,
a fool who is full of food,

23 an unloved woman who is married,
and a maidservant who displaces her mistress.

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

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

26 coneys are creatures of little power,
yet they make their home in the crags;

27 locusts have no king,
yet they advance together in ranks;

28 a lizard can be caught with the hand,
yet it is found in kings’ palaces.

29 “There are three things that are stately in their stride,
four that move with stately bearing:

30 a lion, mighty among beasts,
who retreats before nothing;

31 a strutting rooster, a he-goat,
and a king with his army around him.

32 “If you have played the fool and exalted yourself,
or if you have planned evil,
clap your hand over your mouth!

33 For as churning the milk produces butter,
and as twisting the nose produces blood,
so stirring up anger produces strife.”

Previous Chapter Proverbs 29 Next Chapter Proverbs 31

Analysis of Proverbs Chapter 30

Proverbs 30 is a distinctive chapter within the Book of Proverbs, diverging from the traditionally attributed works of Solomon and instead introducing the sayings of Agur son of Jakeh. This chapter is noteworthy for its candid humility, diverse reflections, and contemplative wisdom. Below is a detailed and insightful analysis of Proverbs 30, providing explanations and interpretations verse by verse.

Verses 1-4: The Humble Observation of Humanity’s Limitations

1 The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh—an inspired utterance. This man’s utterance to Ithiel:
“I am weary, God,
but I can prevail.
2 Surely I am only a brute, not a man;
I do not have human understanding.
3 I have not learned wisdom,
nor have I attained to the knowledge of the Holy One.
4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down?
Whose hands have gathered up the wind?
Who has wrapped up the waters in a cloak?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is his name, and what is the name of his son?
Surely you know!

The chapter begins with Agur’s personal expression of humility, acknowledging his limitations in understanding and wisdom. He claims not to have the same insights as others, rejecting any pretense of superior intellect or divine comprehension. His confessional tone serves to draw readers into an honest self-examination.

In verse 4, Agur poses a series of rhetorical questions that emphasize human insufficiency contrasted with divine omnipotence. Through these questions, he underscores that no human can achieve the feats of creation, control nature, or comprehend the full scope of divine knowledge—raising the inevitable conclusion that there is an omnipotent Creator with authority over all. Notably, this verse implicitly alludes to the concept of divine wisdom embodied in God and His son, foreshadowing the later Christian understanding of Jesus Christ.

Verses 5-6: Affirmation of the Reliability of God’s Word

5 “Every word of God is flawless;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
6 Do not add to his words,
or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.”

Agur swiftly transitions from a declaration of human limitations to an affirmation of the perfection and reliability of God’s Word. By calling God’s word “flawless” or “pure,” he emphasizes its trustworthiness and the protection it offers to believers. This protects against the dangers of pride and deceit that can arise from tampering with divine revelation. Verse 6 reinforces the sanctity of Scripture, cautioning against adding human interpretations or alterations that could corrupt its truth—an admonition echoed throughout biblical texts.

Verses 7-9: A Prayer for a Balanced and Honest Life

7 “Two things I ask of you, Lord;
do not refuse me before I die:
8 Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.
9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you
and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’
Or I may become poor and steal,
and so dishonor the name of my God.”

Agur’s petition in these verses is particularly poignant. He seeks two essential requests: a life free from deceit and a balanced provision of “daily bread.” His aversion to falsehood and lies illustrates a yearning for integrity and truth. By asking for neither wealth nor poverty, Agur acknowledges the potential spiritual dangers inherent in both extremes—a life of excess may lead to self-sufficiency and spiritual neglect, whereas poverty might tempt one into actions that dishonor God.

This prayer embodies the essence of what is often termed the “golden mean,” advocating for a life of moderation and reliance on God’s provision. His desire for “daily bread” resonates with the model prayer Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:11, emphasizing a continual dependence on God for our necessities.

Verses 10-14: Warnings Against Arrogance and Injustice

10 “Do not slander a servant to their master,
or they will curse you, and you will pay for it.
11 There are those who curse their fathers
and do not bless their mothers;
12 those who are pure in their own eyes
and yet are not cleansed of their filth;
13 those whose eyes are ever so haughty,
whose glances are so disdainful;
14 those whose teeth are swords
and whose jaws are set with knives
to devour the poor from the earth
and the needy from among mankind.”

In this portion, Agur provides practical and ethical instructions, warning against various forms of arrogance and injustice. In verse 10, he advises against slandering a servant, warning of the consequences of unjust actions. This implies a broader principle of justice and humility, recognizing the dignity of individuals irrespective of their social status.

Verses 11-14 depict different types of morally corrupt individuals:

  • Those who disrespect their parents, violating a fundamental commandment and disrupting familial harmony.
  • Those who consider themselves morally superior yet remain spiritually unclean—a critique of self-righteousness and hypocrisy.
  • Those who exhibit pride and disdain, distancing themselves from humility and community.
  • Those who exploit and oppress the vulnerable, weaponizing their resources and power against the poor.

Agur’s depiction serves as a moral compass, urging readers to reflect on their actions and attitudes, fostering humility, respect, and justice in their dealings with others.

Verses 15-16: Observations on Insatiable Desires

15 “The leech has two daughters.
‘Give! Give!’ they cry.
There are three things that are never satisfied,
four that never say, ‘Enough!’:
16 The grave, the barren womb,
land, which is never satisfied with water,
and fire, which never says, ‘Enough!’

Agur introduces a poetic observation about insatiable desires, beginning with the metaphor of a leech, a creature symbolizing greed and endless craving. This metaphor is followed by a rhetorical enumeration of four insatiable entities:

  • The grave (Sheol): Always consuming lives and never filled.
  • The barren womb: A deep symbolism of unfulfilled potential and longing for life.
  • Land: Constantly absorbing water yet persistently dry and demanding more.
  • Fire: Consuming everything in its path without ever being quenched.

These elements embody the theme of insatiability, prompting readers to consider the endless nature of human desires and the dangers of never being content. It serves as a caution against materialism, highlighting the futility of attempting to find fulfillment in worldly possessions and pursuits.

Verses 17-23: Moral Lessons Through Contrasts

17 “The eye that mocks a father,
that scorns an aged mother,
will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley,
will be eaten by the vultures.”
18 “There are three things that are too amazing for me,
four that I do not understand:
19 the way of an eagle in the sky,
the way of a snake on a rock,
the way of a ship on the high seas,
and the way of a man with a young woman.”
20 “This is the way of an adulterous woman:
She eats and wipes her mouth
and says, ‘I’ve done nothing wrong.’
21 “Under three things the earth trembles,
under four it cannot bear up:
22 a servant who becomes king,
a godless fool who gets plenty to eat,
23 a contemptible woman who gets married,
and a servant who displaces her mistress.”

These verses employ contrasts and hyperbole to convey moral lessons. Verse 17 warns of severe consequences for disrespecting one’s parents, highlighting the social and spiritual importance of honoring one’s elders.

Verses 18-19 marvel at natural mysteries, describing phenomena that evoke wonder and perplexity. Agur’s list—an eagle, a snake, a ship, and romantic love—captures the idea of paths that leave no trace, underscoring the inherent mystery of life’s journeys and relationships.

Verse 20 presents a blunt observation on deceit and immorality, using the metaphor of an adulterous woman who shows no remorse—a commentary on moral indifference and the destructive nature of sin. Verses 21-23 then describe four destabilizing scenarios, which upend social norms and expectations, causing widespread disruption.

Through these vivid contrasts, Agur invites readers to ponder the complexities and consequences of human behavior, urging adherence to moral integrity and respect for established social structures.

Verses 24-28: Wisdom in Small Creatures

24 “Four things on earth are small,
yet they are extremely wise:
25 Ants are creatures of little strength,
yet they store up their food in the summer;
26 hyraxes are creatures of little power,
yet they make their home in the crags;
27 locusts have no king,
yet they advance together in ranks;
28 a lizard can be caught with the hand,
yet it is found in kings’ palaces.”

Agur shifts focus to the natural world, highlighting the wisdom demonstrated by small creatures:

  • Ants: Exemplify foresight and hard work, preparing for the future.
  • Hyraxes: Display an understanding of their weaknesses by seeking secure habitats.
  • Locusts: Maintain unity and order despite the absence of a leader, illustrating collective strength.
  • Lizards: Exhibit adaptability, thriving in varied environments, including palaces.

These examples teach that wisdom is not dependent on size or strength but on prudent behavior, strategic planning, community cooperation, and adaptability. They encourage reflecting on how small, seemingly insignificant actions can lead to significant success.

Verses 29-31: Admiration of Noble and Majestic Creatures

29 “There are three things that are stately in their stride,
four that move with stately bearing:
30 a lion, mighty among beasts,
who retreats before nothing;
31 a strutting rooster, a he-goat,
and a king secure against revolt.”

This set of verses shifts to creatures and individuals admired for their majesty and confidence:

  • The lion: Known for its strength and fearlessness.
  • The rooster: Confidently struts, symbolizing boldness.
  • The he-goat: Commands respect within its herd.
  • A secure king: Represents stability and authority.

Together, these examples highlight the virtues of courage, confidence, leadership, and composure. Agur emphasizes that these qualities are vital for effective leadership and personal conduct, embodying a presence that commands respect through inner strength and assurance.

Verses 32-33: A Final Admonition Against Folly

32 “If you play the fool and exalt yourself,
or if you plan evil,
clap your hand over your mouth!
33 For as churning cream produces butter,
and as twisting the nose produces blood,
so stirring up anger produces strife.”

The chapter concludes with a practical warning against self-exaltation and malicious intent. Verse 32 advises a physical restraint—clapping a hand over the mouth—to prevent speaking or acting foolishly. It’s a call to self-discipline and caution against the destructive consequences of pride and folly.

Verse 33 uses vivid imagery to illustrate that certain actions inevitably lead to undesirable outcomes: churning milk produces butter, twisting the nose causes bleeding, and inciting anger results in conflict. This serves as a powerful metaphor for the principle of cause and effect, reminding readers that actions have predictable consequences and encouraging them to heed wisdom to avoid discord and strife.

In summary, Proverbs 30 offers a rich tapestry of reflections and teachings. Through Agur’s humble confessions, ethical instructions, natural observations, and vivid illustrations, the chapter provides profound insights into the human condition, the limits of human understanding, the importance of maintaining integrity and humility, and the pursuit of divine wisdom. It stands as a timeless guide, urging readers to seek balance, practice prudence, and live righteously.