Proverbs 12:27 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 12:27 mean?

Proverbs 12:27 says that a lazy person does not finish what he starts, even after catching something while hunting, but a hardworking person values and makes the most of what he has. The verse contrasts the wastefulness of laziness with the care and appreciation shown by diligence.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, aimed at teaching practical wisdom. The verse uses the example of hunting—common in ancient Israel—to show how laziness leads to wasted effort, while diligence brings lasting value. The focus is on the attitude toward work and the results it brings.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 12:27

• "slothful" (רְמִיָּה, remiyyah): This word means someone who is lazy or negligent. The verse uses it to describe a person who does not follow through on their efforts.
• "roasteth" (חָרַךְ, charakh): This verb means to roast or prepare food. It highlights that the lazy person does not even bother to finish preparing what he has caught.
• "hunting" (צַיִד, tsayid): Refers to game or prey from hunting. The proverb uses this as a concrete example of work that is left unfinished.
• "substance" (הוֹן, hon): This word means wealth or possessions. It shows that what the diligent person gains is valuable and not wasted.
• "diligent" (חָרוּץ, charuts): This describes someone who is determined and hardworking. The verse praises this quality as leading to something precious.
• "precious" (יָקָר, yaqar): Means valuable or highly esteemed. It emphasizes that what the diligent person gains is not just useful but treasured.

Why Proverbs 12:27 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that effort alone is enough; it stresses the importance of following through and making the most of what you have.
• Proverbs 12:27 highlights a practical aspect of wisdom: diligence is not just about working hard, but about caring for and valuing the results of your work.
• The proverb fits into a larger theme in Proverbs contrasting the outcomes of laziness and diligence, showing that character shapes both actions and results.