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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 24 - Verse 33

24:33
Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

Meaning

This verse emphasizes the importance of diligence and hard work in achieving success. The phrase "a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep" highlights the dangers of becoming complacent and lazy. By indulging in just a little bit of rest and inactivity, one can quickly find themselves falling behind in their responsibilities and goals. The verse serves as a warning against procrastination and encourages individuals to stay focused and dedicated to their tasks. By staying alert and diligent, one can avoid the pitfalls of laziness and work towards achieving their desired outcomes. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize hard work and perseverance in order to succeed in life.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse, found in Proverbs 6:10, emphasizes the dangers of laziness and the importance of being diligent and hardworking. The phrase "a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep" is a poetic and vivid way of illustrating how easily one can fall into a pattern of inactivity and procrastination. In a broader sense, this verse serves as a warning against complacency and the negative consequences of neglecting one's responsibilities.

Word studies on this verse can provide further insight into the original Hebrew text. For example, the word "sleep" can also be translated as "slumber" in some versions of the Bible, highlighting the idea of not fully engaging with one's tasks. The repetition of the word "little" emphasizes the gradual nature of becoming lazy, suggesting that it is often a slow and subtle process. By examining these nuances in the language, we can better understand the depth of wisdom contained in this seemingly simple verse.

American Standard Version

[ Yet] a little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep;
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