Proverbs 13:11 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 13:11 mean?

Proverbs 13:11 teaches that money gained quickly and dishonestly will not last, but wealth built gradually through hard work will grow over time. The verse contrasts fleeting, empty gain with the steady increase that comes from diligent effort.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings attributed to Solomon, offering practical advice to the reader or listener—often imagined as a young person learning about life. The verse uses everyday experiences with money to highlight the value of honest labor and the risks of chasing easy riches.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 13:11

• "Wealth" (הוֹן, hon; H1952) refers to possessions or riches, not just money. The word covers anything of value a person might accumulate.
• "Vanity" (הֶבֶל, hevel; H1892) means emptiness, worthlessness, or something insubstantial. Here, it points to wealth gained in a way that lacks substance or honesty.
• "Diminished" (מָעַט, ma'at; H4591) carries the sense of shrinking or being reduced. The proverb warns that wealth gained by empty means will not last.
• "Gathereth" (קָבַץ, qavats; H6908) means to collect or gather bit by bit. This highlights the slow, steady process of building wealth.
• "Labour" (יָד, yad; H3027) literally means "hand," but often represents work or effort in Hebrew. The verse emphasizes wealth earned by one's own effort.
• "Increase" (רָבָה, ravah; H7235) means to grow or multiply, showing that honest work leads to lasting gain.

Why Proverbs 13:11 matters

• Proverbs 13:11 clarifies that the Bible does not condemn wealth itself, but warns against gaining it through dishonest or reckless means.
• The verse highlights a principle seen throughout Proverbs: steady, honest effort is more reliable than shortcuts or schemes.
• This proverb connects to a larger theme in Proverbs about character and wisdom, showing that how one gains wealth matters as much as the wealth itself.