King James Version
What Does Proverbs 6:7 Mean?
“Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,”
Proverbs 6:7 · KJV
Context
5
Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.
6
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
7
Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,
8
Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.
9
How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe ant has no guide, overseer, or ruler, yet it prepares food in summer and gathers in harvest. This observation highlights natural diligence without external compulsion. The Hebrew 'qatsiyn' (captain), 'shoter' (officer), and 'moshel' (ruler) represent hierarchical authority - yet ants work industriously without it. True wisdom produces self-motivated responsibility, not mere external compliance. Godly work ethic flows from character, not coercion.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient agricultural societies intimately understood seasonal rhythms - summer's abundance must sustain winter's scarcity. Unlike modern just-in-time supply chains, ancient survival depended on harvest-time diligence. The ant illustrates this perfectly, becoming proverbial for wise preparation.
Reflection Questions
- What work requires your diligent attention without external supervision?
- How can you develop internal motivation for responsibility rather than merely external compliance?
- What 'summer' opportunities for preparation are you neglecting that winter will expose?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsאֲשֶׁ֖ר1 of 6
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
לָ֥הּ3 of 6
H0שֹׁטֵ֥ר5 of 6
“overseer”
H7860properly, a scribe, i.e., (by analogy or implication) an official superintendent or magistrate
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 6:7 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 6:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge