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Proverbs 26:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

A lazy person thinks he's smarter than seven people who can give good advice.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse is warning that lazy people often have an inflated view of their own wisdom and reject helpful counsel from others.

📚 Historical Context

Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings attributed to King Solomon, written in ancient Israel around 900 BC as part of the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. This verse addresses the common human tendency toward laziness, using the "sluggard" as a symbol for someone who overestimates their own wisdom while ignoring sound advice. In that cultural context, such proverbs were shared to guide people in practical and moral decision-making within a society that valued industriousness and humility.

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