The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
A lazy person won't plow their fields because it's cold outside; so when harvest time comes, they'll have to beg for food but will have nothing.
This verse is warning that laziness and making excuses now will lead to poverty and need later.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, agriculture was the primary means of livelihood, and proverbs like this one were part of wisdom literature designed to teach practical lessons through everyday experiences. The "sluggard" represents a lazy person who avoids hard work, such as plowing in the cold season, which was necessary to prepare fields for planting and ensure a successful harvest. This verse reflects the cultural reality where procrastination could lead to poverty, emphasizing the value of diligence in a society dependent on seasonal farming.
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