Proverbs 30:7 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 30:7 mean?

Proverbs 30:7 records a personal prayer in which the writer asks God for two specific things and pleads not to be refused these requests before he dies. The verse sets up an honest, heartfelt appeal for help with life’s most important needs.

The speaker here is Agur, a wise man whose sayings are collected in Proverbs 30. Agur addresses God directly, showing humility and dependence. This verse introduces a short prayer that continues in the next verses, where Agur will name the two things he desires. The tone is earnest, and the request is made with a sense of urgency, as Agur wants these needs met before his life ends.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 30:7

• "Two" (שְׁתַּ֫יִם, shĕtayim): The use of "two" emphasizes that Agur’s request is focused and deliberate, not a long list of wishes but a careful selection of what he sees as most essential.
• "Required" (שָׁאַל, sha'al): This word often means "to ask" or "to request" earnestly, highlighting that Agur is not demanding but humbly petitioning God.
• "Deny" (מָנַע, mana'): The word here means "to withhold" or "to refuse," underscoring Agur’s hope that God will not hold back these crucial things from him.
• "Die" (מוּת, muth): Mentioning death gives the request a sense of finality and seriousness, stressing that these needs are important for the remainder of Agur’s life.

Why Proverbs 30:7 matters

• Proverbs 30:7 shows that it is wise to reflect on what is truly important and to bring those needs honestly before God, rather than asking for many things without thought.
• The verse introduces a rare, personal prayer in the book of Proverbs, which is usually filled with general wisdom sayings, making Agur’s words stand out.
• By asking not to be denied before death, Agur highlights the urgency and lifelong importance of his requests, inviting readers to consider what they would most earnestly seek from God.