Proverbs 26:14
Proverbs 26:14 in Multiple Translations
As a door turns on its hinges, so the slacker turns on his bed.
As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
As the door turneth upon its hinges, So doth the sluggard upon his bed.
A door is turned on its pillar, and the hater of work on his bed.
A lazy person turns in bed like a door turns on its hinge.
As the doore turneth vpon his hinges, so doeth the slouthfull man vpon his bed.
The door turneth round on its hinge, And the slothful on his bed.
As the door turns on its hinges, so does the sluggard on his bed.
As the door turneth upon its hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
As the door turneth upon its hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
A door continually swings back and forth on its hinges and does not go anywhere; similarly [SIM], lazy people just continually turn over in their beds and never do anything.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 26:14
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 26:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
הַ֭/דֶּלֶת
תִּסּ֣וֹב
עַל
צִירָ֑/הּ
וְ֝/עָצֵ֗ל
עַל
מִטָּתֽ/וֹ
הַ֭/דֶּלֶת
deleth
H1817
door
Art | N-fs
תִּסּ֣וֹב
çâbab
H5437
to turn
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
צִירָ֑/הּ
tsîyr
H6735
envoy
N-ms | Suff
וְ֝/עָצֵ֗ל
ʻâtsêl
H6102
sluggish
Conj | Adj
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
מִטָּתֽ/וֹ
miṭṭâh
H4296
bed
N-fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 26:14
הַ֭/דֶּלֶת
deleth
H1817
"door"
Art | N-fs
A door is something that swings, like the valve of a door or gate. In the Bible, doors can represent entrance or access, as seen in Psalm 141:3 where David asks God to set a door on his lips.
Definition: door (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 78 OT verses. KJV: door (two-leaved), gate, leaf, lid. (Psalm 141:3). See also: Genesis 19:6; 2 Chronicles 28:24; Psalms 78:23.
תִּסּ֣וֹב
çâbab
H5437
"to turn"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
To turn or surround is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can be used literally or figuratively. It appears in the Bible to describe changing direction or surrounding something.
Definition: : turn/bring_around 1) to turn, turn about or around or aside or back or towards, go about or around, surround, encircle, change direction 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to turn, turn about, be brought round, change 1a2) to march or walk around, go partly around, circle about, skirt, make a round, make a circuit, go about to, surround, encompass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to turn oneself, close round, turn round 1b2) to be turned over to 1c) (Piel) to turn about, change, transform 1d) (Poel) 1d1) to encompass, surround 1d2) to come about, assemble round 1d3) to march, go about 1d4) to enclose, envelop 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to turn, cause to turn, turn back, reverse, bring over, turn into, bring round 1e2) to cause to go around, surround, encompass 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be turned 1f2) to be surrounded
Usage: Occurs in 148 OT verses. KJV: bring, cast, fetch, lead, make, walk, [idiom] whirl, [idiom] round about, be about on every side, apply, avoid, beset (about), besiege, bring again, carry (about), change, cause to come about, [idiom] circuit, (fetch a) compass (about, round), drive, environ, [idiom] on every side, beset (close, come, compass, go, stand) round about, inclose, remove, return, set, sit down, turn (self) (about, aside, away, back). See also: Genesis 2:11; 1 Chronicles 16:43; Psalms 7:8.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
צִירָ֑/הּ
tsîyr
H6735
"envoy"
N-ms | Suff
A pang refers to a sharp feeling of pain or distress, like the sorrow felt by King David in Psalm 55:4. It can also mean a messenger or ambassador, like the ones sent by King Solomon in 1 Kings 5:8.
Definition: envoy, messenger
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, hinge, messenger, pain, pang, sorrow. Compare H6736 (צִיר). See also: 1 Samuel 4:19; Isaiah 18:2; Proverbs 13:17.
וְ֝/עָצֵ֗ל
ʻâtsêl
H6102
"sluggish"
Conj | Adj
A sluggish person, often called a sluggard, this word describes someone who is habitually lazy or idle, like the slothful person in Proverbs.
Definition: 1) sluggish, lazy 1a) sluggard (subst)
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: slothful, sluggard. See also: Proverbs 6:6; Proverbs 21:25; Proverbs 6:9.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
מִטָּתֽ/וֹ
miṭṭâh
H4296
"bed"
N-fs | Suff
This word refers to a bed or couch, often used for sleeping or eating. In the Bible, it can also refer to a sofa or a bier for carrying the dead. It is a physical object for rest or relaxation.
Definition: couch, bed, bier
Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: bed(-chamber), bier. See also: Genesis 47:31; 2 Kings 1:16; Psalms 6:7.
Study Notes — Proverbs 26:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 26:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 26:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 26:14
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 26:14
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
- Sermons on Proverbs 26:14
Context — Similitudes and Instructions
12Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
13The slacker says, “A lion is in the road! A fierce lion roams the public square!”
14As a door turns on its hinges, so the slacker turns on his bed.
15The slacker buries his hand in the dish; it wearies him to bring it back to his mouth. 16The slacker is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hebrews 6:12 | Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. |
| 2 | Proverbs 12:27 | A lazy man does not roast his game, but a diligent man prizes his possession. |
| 3 | Proverbs 12:24 | The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. |
| 4 | Proverbs 6:9–10 | How long will you lie there, O slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, |
| 5 | Proverbs 24:33 | A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, |
Proverbs 26:14 Summary
[Proverbs 26:14 uses a simple but powerful metaphor to describe the laziness of a slacker, comparing their movements to a door turning on its hinges, which goes nowhere. This verse teaches us that laziness can lead to a lack of progress and productivity in our lives, as also warned in Proverbs 20:4. By being diligent and responsible, as encouraged in Colossians 3:23-24, we can avoid the trap of laziness and live a more fulfilling and purposeful life. As we reflect on this verse, we can ask ourselves if there are areas where we need to make a change and start taking action towards our goals and responsibilities.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main point of Proverbs 26:14?
The main point of Proverbs 26:14 is to illustrate the laziness of a slacker, comparing their turning on their bed to a door turning on its hinges, highlighting their lack of productivity and initiative, as also seen in Proverbs 20:4.
How does this verse relate to other biblical teachings on laziness?
This verse aligns with other biblical teachings on laziness, such as Proverbs 6:9-11, which warns against the dangers of excessive sleep and laziness, and 2 Thessalonians 3:10, which instructs that if a person does not work, they should not eat.
What is the significance of the door turning on its hinges in this verse?
The door turning on its hinges in Proverbs 26:14 is a metaphor for the slacker's lack of progress or movement, emphasizing that just as a door turns but does not actually go anywhere, the slacker remains in a state of inactivity, similar to the warning in Matthew 25:26-30 against being unproductive with one's talents.
How can we apply the lesson of Proverbs 26:14 to our daily lives?
We can apply the lesson of Proverbs 26:14 by recognizing the importance of diligence and hard work, as encouraged in Colossians 3:23-24, and striving to be productive and responsible in our daily tasks and responsibilities, avoiding the trap of laziness and lack of initiative.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I may be exhibiting laziness or a lack of initiative, and how can I take steps to change this?
- How does my daily routine and schedule reflect my priorities and values, and are there any adjustments I need to make to be more productive and responsible?
- In what ways can I apply the biblical principle of diligence and hard work to my relationships, work, and personal growth, and what benefits can I expect to see as a result?
- What are some practical strategies I can use to overcome procrastination and stay motivated, and how can I hold myself accountable for my actions and progress?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 26:14
[As] the door turneth upon his hinges,.... And moves this way and that way, and opens and shuts, and yet hangs where it did, is not moved from its place: so [doth] the slothful upon his bed; he turns
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 26:14
As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed. As the door turneth upon his hinges, so (doth) the slothful upon his bed. As the door moves round the same center, and cannot be separated from it.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
Turneth upon his hinges; moving hither and thither upon them, but not removing one jot from its place.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
Proverbs 26:14 [As] the door turneth upon his hinges, so [doth] the slothful upon his bed.Ver. 14. As the door turneth upon his hinges.] But comes not off, unless lifted or knocked off. So neither comes the sluggard out of his feathered nest, where he lies soaking and stretching, unless hard hunger or other necessity rouse and raise him. As abroad there is a lion, so at home there is a lusk, a lurdam, and a losel, that lives in the worm to no purpose - yea, to bad purpose, and being wise in his own conceit, will not accept of better counsel. Those whose heads are laid upon down pillows are not apt to hear noises; no more are those that live at ease in Zion to hearken to wholesome advice, or if sometimes they have a kind of willingness and velleity to do better, yet it is but as the door that turns on the hinges, but yet hangs still upon them.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 26:14
14. “He will not get up in the morning; he turns from side to side, just like a door which swings backward and forward upon its hinges, but of course never gets any further.” Horton, ch. xx. p. 263, where a graphic picture of the sluggard is drawn by bringing together the different notices of him in the Book of Proverbs.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 26:14
14. As the door turneth — “Doors anciently turned on vertical pivots. As the door moves on its hinges, but not from them, so the sluggard moves on, but not from, his bed.” — Muenscher.
Sermons on Proverbs 26:14
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Australia) Offended in Christ by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God has everything under control. The congregation is encouraged to rejoice and sing in the presence of the Lord. The preacher mentions |
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(The Works of Faith) Wait for God to Act by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abraham and Lot in Genesis 13. He highlights the strife between their servants and emphasizes the significance of the last sent |
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(Genesis) - Part 19 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being free from attachment to worldly things. He uses the example of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his son Isaac to ill |
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(Revelation) Revelation 13:1-13 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the limited period of three and a half years mentioned in the Bible. He refers to Daniel's 70th week and explains that this period of authori |
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A God Sent Message of Warning by Tim Conway | This sermon emphasizes the importance of heeding the warnings in the book of Hebrews, highlighting the need for genuine faith in Christ, the danger of drifting away, and the necess |
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(Hebrews) ch.6:16-8:9 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of coming to the end of oneself in order to experience the power of God. He explains that the purpose of the law was to show m |
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Pioneers (Abraham, a Pioneer of Revival, Missions, and Holiness) - Part 2 by David Smithers | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of pleasing God and growing in faith. He encourages the audience to abound more and more in their walk with Christ. The speake |