Proverbs 26:15 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 26:15 mean?

Proverbs 26:15 describes a lazy person who is so unwilling to exert effort that, after putting his hand into his bosom (or dish), he finds it too much trouble to bring it back to his mouth. The verse uses this exaggerated picture to highlight the extreme reluctance of the slothful to do even the simplest tasks for their own benefit.

This proverb comes from a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, directed at anyone seeking practical wisdom for daily life. The image is meant to be almost comical, showing how laziness can reach a point where a person will not even finish what they start, even when it is in their own best interest.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 26:15

• "slothful" (עָצֵל, ʿāṣēl): This word refers to someone habitually lazy or unwilling to work, not just someone resting or tired.
• "hideth" (טָמַן, tāman): Here, it means to bury or tuck away, painting a picture of someone who puts their hand into their bosom or dish and leaves it there, avoiding further effort.
• "bosom" (פָּרוּר, pārûr): In some translations, this word can mean "dish" or "bowl," suggesting the person is too lazy to bring food from the dish to their mouth.
• "grieveth" (נָאַל, nāʾal): This word means to be weary or unwilling, emphasizing that even a small action feels like a burden to the lazy person.

Why Proverbs 26:15 matters

• Proverbs 26:15 uses humor and exaggeration to make the dangers of laziness memorable and clear, showing how it can lead to self-defeating behavior.
• The verse fits into a larger section warning against foolishness and laziness, helping the reader see the practical consequences of such attitudes.
• By describing even the most basic act as too much trouble for the slothful, the proverb warns that laziness can rob a person of even the simplest rewards.