King James Version

What Does Proverbs 20:4 Mean?

Proverbs 20:4 in the King James Version says “The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. cold: or, winter — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. cold: or, winter

Proverbs 20:4 · KJV


Context

2

The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.

3

It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

4

The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. cold: or, winter

5

Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

6

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find? goodness: or, bounty


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The 'sluggard' (Hebrew 'atsel'—lazy person) won't plow in winter due to cold, so he begs during harvest and receives nothing. This illustrates the principle of sowing and reaping. Those who avoid necessary labor when it's difficult will lack when it's time to enjoy fruit. Reformed theology emphasizes diligent work as Christian calling (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Slothfulness is sin—a failure of stewardship and trust in God's providence. This proverb warns that present ease purchased through laziness yields future want.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Palestinian winters (October-March) were the plowing and sowing season, though cold and rainy. Farmers who avoided this difficult work would have no crops to harvest in spring and summer, leading to begging and hunger.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what areas are you avoiding difficult but necessary work?
  2. How do you balance rest with the biblical mandate for diligent labor?
  3. What 'winter plowing' do you need to do now to avoid future lack?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
מֵ֭חֹרֶף1 of 7

by reason of the cold

H2779

properly, the crop gathered, i.e., (by implication) the autumn (and winter) season; figuratively, ripeness of age

עָצֵ֣ל2 of 7

The sluggard

H6102

indolent

לֹא3 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יַחֲרֹ֑שׁ4 of 7

will not plow

H2790

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

יְשָׁאַ֖ל5 of 7

therefore shall he beg

H7592

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

בַּקָּצִ֣יר6 of 7

in harvest

H7105

severed, a limb (of a tree, or simply foliage)

וָאָֽיִן׃7 of 7
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 20:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 20:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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