Proverbs 18:9
Proverbs 18:9 in Multiple Translations
Whoever is slothful in his work is brother to him who destroys.
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
He also that is slack in his work Is brother to him that is a destroyer.
He who does not give his mind to his work is brother to him who makes destruction.
Laziness and destruction are brothers.
He also that is slouthfull in his worke, is euen the brother of him that is a great waster.
He also that is remiss in his work, A brother he [is] to a destroyer.
One who is slack in his work is brother to him who is a master of destruction.
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
He that is loose and slack in his work, is the brother of him that wasteth his own works.
People who are lazy while they work are just as bad as [IDM] those who destroy things.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 18:9
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 18:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
גַּ֭ם
מִתְרַפֶּ֣ה
בִ/מְלַאכְתּ֑/וֹ
אָ֥ח
ה֝֗וּא
לְ/בַ֣עַל
מַשְׁחִֽית
גַּ֭ם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
מִתְרַפֶּ֣ה
râphâh
H7503
to slacken
V-Hithpael
בִ/מְלַאכְתּ֑/וֹ
mᵉlâʼkâh
H4399
work
Prep | N-fs | Suff
אָ֥ח
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-ms
ה֝֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
לְ/בַ֣עַל
baʻal
H1167
master
Prep | N-ms
מַשְׁחִֽית
shâchath
H7843
to ruin
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 18:9
גַּ֭ם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
מִתְרַפֶּ֣ה
râphâh
H7503
"to slacken"
V-Hithpael
This Hebrew word means to slacken or relax, and is used in many contexts, such as feeling disheartened or abandoning something. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament, including in Psalms and Proverbs. The word can also mean to let go or be idle.
Definition: 1) to sink, relax, sink down, let drop, be disheartened 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sink down 1a2) to sink, drop 1a3) to sink, relax, abate 1a4) to relax, withdraw 1b) (Niphal) idle (participle) 1c) (Piel) to let drop 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to let drop, abandon, relax, refrain, forsake 1d2) to let go 1d3) to refrain, let alone 1d4) to be quiet 1e) (Hithpael) to show oneself slack
Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: abate, cease, consume, draw (toward evening), fail, (be) faint, be (wax) feeble, forsake, idle, leave, let alone (go, down), (be) slack, stay, be still, be slothful, (be) weak(-en). See H7495 (רָפָא). See also: Exodus 4:26; Nehemiah 6:3; Psalms 37:8.
בִ/מְלַאכְתּ֑/וֹ
mᵉlâʼkâh
H4399
"work"
Prep | N-fs | Suff
Means work or employment, like a job or business, and is used to describe someone's occupation or the result of their labor, as seen in the Bible's description of various professions and industries.
Definition: 1) occupation, work, business 1a) occupation, business 1b) property 1c) work (something done or made) 1d) workmanship 1e) service, use 1f) public business 1f1) political 1f2) religious
Usage: Occurs in 149 OT verses. KJV: business, [phrase] cattle, [phrase] industrious, occupation, ([phrase] -pied), [phrase] officer, thing (made), use, (manner of) work((-man), -manship). See also: Genesis 2:2; 1 Chronicles 9:13; Psalms 73:28.
אָ֥ח
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
ה֝֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
לְ/בַ֣עַל
baʻal
H1167
"master"
Prep | N-ms
Means master or owner, often referring to a husband or leader, as seen in the book of Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : master/leader 1) owner, husband, lord 1a) owner 1b) a husband 1c) citizens, inhabitants 1d) rulers, lords 1e) (noun of relationship used to characterise-ie, master of dreams)
Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] archer, [phrase] babbler, [phrase] bird, captain, chief man, [phrase] confederate, [phrase] have to do, [phrase] dreamer, those to whom it is due, [phrase] furious, those that are given to it, great, [phrase] hairy, he that hath it, have, [phrase] horseman, husband, lord, man, [phrase] married, master, person, [phrase] sworn, they of. See also: Genesis 14:13; 1 Samuel 23:11; Proverbs 1:17.
מַשְׁחִֽית
shâchath
H7843
"to ruin"
N-ms
This verb means to ruin or destroy something, and it is used in various forms throughout the Bible to describe corruption and decay.
Definition: 1) to destroy, corrupt, go to ruin, decay 1a) (Niphal) to be marred, be spoiled, be corrupted, be corrupt, be injured, be ruined, be rotted 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to spoil, ruin 1b2) to pervert, corrupt, deal corruptly (morally) 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to spoil, ruin, destroy 1c2) to pervert, corrupt (morally) 1c3) destroyer (participle) 1d) (Hophal) spoiled, ruined (participle) Aramaic equivalent: she.chat (שְׁחַת "to corrupt" H7844)
Usage: Occurs in 136 OT verses. KJV: batter, cast off, corrupt(-er, thing), destroy(-er, -uction), lose, mar, perish, spill, spoiler, [idiom] utterly, waste(-r). See also: Genesis 6:11; Psalms 14:1; Psalms 53:2.
Study Notes — Proverbs 18:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 18:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 18:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 18:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 18:9
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
- Sermons on Proverbs 18:9
Context — The Selfishness of the Unfriendly
7A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
8The words of a gossip are like choice morsels that go down into the inmost being.
9Whoever is slothful in his work is brother to him who destroys.
10The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. 11A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city; it is like a high wall in his imagination.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 10:4 | Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth. |
| 2 | Hebrews 6:12 | Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. |
| 3 | Proverbs 24:30–34 | I went past the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking judgment. Thorns had grown up everywhere, thistles had covered the ground, and the stone wall was broken down. I observed and took it to heart; I looked and received instruction: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit. |
| 4 | Proverbs 23:20–21 | Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags. |
| 5 | Romans 12:11 | Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. |
| 6 | Matthew 25:26 | ‘You wicked, lazy servant!’ replied his master. ‘You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed. |
| 7 | Proverbs 28:24 | He who robs his father or mother, saying, “It is not wrong,” is a companion to the man who destroys. |
| 8 | Luke 15:13–14 | After a few days, the younger son got everything together and journeyed to a distant country, where he squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent all he had, a severe famine swept through that country, and he began to be in need. |
| 9 | Luke 16:1–2 | Jesus also said to His disciples, “There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions. So he called him in to ask, ‘What is this I hear about you? Turn in an account of your management, for you cannot be manager any longer.’ |
| 10 | Job 30:29 | I have become a brother of jackals, a companion of ostriches. |
Proverbs 18:9 Summary
This verse teaches us that being lazy or slothful in our work is just as bad as being someone who destroys things, because it can have negative effects on ourselves and others. To avoid this, we should strive to be diligent and hardworking, just like the ant in Proverbs 6:6-11, and remember that our work is important to God, as stated in Colossians 3:23-24. By being responsible and working hard, we can build strong relationships and communities, and bring glory to God. As we work, we should also remember to rest and trust in God's provision, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34 and Exodus 20:8-11.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be slothful in my work?
Being slothful in our work means being lazy or lacking diligence in our responsibilities, which can have negative consequences, as seen in Proverbs 18:9, and is also warned against in Proverbs 6:6-11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12.
Who is the brother to him who destroys?
The brother to him who destroys is the one who is slothful in his work, implying that laziness can lead to destructive patterns, similar to how the Bible warns against the dangers of idleness in Proverbs 24:30-34 and Matthew 25:14-30.
How can I avoid being slothful in my work?
To avoid being slothful, we can follow the example of the diligent ant in Proverbs 6:6-11, work with our hands as unto the Lord as mentioned in Colossians 3:23-24, and remember that our labor is not in vain in the Lord, as stated in 1 Corinthians 15:58.
What is the significance of destruction in this verse?
The destruction mentioned in Proverbs 18:9 refers to the destructive nature of laziness, which can lead to the breakdown of relationships, communities, and even our own lives, as seen in the consequences of sin in Genesis 3 and the warnings against destructive behaviors in Proverbs 1:18-19 and Romans 6:23.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I may be exhibiting slothful behavior, and how can I begin to make changes?
- How does my work ethic reflect my relationship with God, and what adjustments can I make to honor Him in my daily tasks?
- What are some ways I can cultivate a diligent and hardworking spirit, and how can I encourage others to do the same?
- In what ways can I balance rest and work, making sure I am not being slothful, but also taking time to rest and recharge as mentioned in Exodus 20:8-11 and Mark 6:31?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 18:9
He also that is slothful in his work,.... Remiss in it; hangs down his hands, and does not care to make use of them, but neglects his business: is brother to him that is a great waster: a prodigal
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 18:9
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
They are alike; though they take several paths, yet both come to one end, even to extreme want and poverty.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
Proverbs 18:9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.Ver. 9. He also that is slothful in his work.] As he must needs be that goes peddling about with tales, and buzzing evil reports into the ears of those that will hear them. See 1 Timothy 5:3, with the note there. Lata negligentia dolus est, saith the civilian. Is brother to him that is a great waster.] Est frater Domini disperditionis, will as certainly come to poverty as the greatest waster of good. A man dies no less surely, though not so suddenly, of a consumption than of an apoplexy.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
(9) He also that is slothful in his work.—Whatsoever it may be that is committed to his care, is “brother to him that is a great waster,” or “destroyer “; neglect of duty causes almost as much mischief in life as active wickedness.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
Verse 9. He also that is slothful] A slothful man neglects his work, and the materials go to ruin: the waster, he destroys the materials. They are both destroyers.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 18:9
9. a great waster] Lit. a master of laying waste, or destroying; a destroyer, R.V. Comp. for a similar sentiment, “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad,” Matthew 12:30.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 18:9
9. He… is brother — Both courses lead to the same end, poverty; the one does not make what he ought, and the other destroys what is made. Great waster — Literally, master of destruction; destroyer. Comp. Proverbs 28:24.
Sermons on Proverbs 18:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Fulfilling Your Calling by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being lazy or slack in our work, especially when it comes to God's work. He references Matthew 28:19, where Jesus comm |
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Mercenary Christians by Glenn Meldrum | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the issue of a mercenary mentality that has infiltrated the American church. He uses the story of Simon the sorcerer from Acts chapter eight |
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True Treasure by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting God's work above our own desires and needs. He highlights the biblical teaching of working hard for our current ne |
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O Church Arise! by Tim Conway | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of working for the Lord while there is still time. He shares a personal experience of attending his class reunion and realizing |
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(Proverbs) ch.12:22 - 14:4 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fearing God's commandments and the rewards that come with it. He highlights the power of wise teachings, comparing them to |
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God Will Not Bless the Lazy by Bakht Singh | Bakht Singh emphasizes the promise of God to open the heavens and bless the work of our hands, highlighting the importance of being active and diligent in our endeavors to receive |
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Laziness Brings Poverty by Derek Prince | Derek Prince delves into Proverbs 6:9-11, highlighting the spiritual root cause of poverty as laziness. He emphasizes that poverty and scarcity are not just material conditions but |