Abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poorThis phrase highlights the potential and resources available even in seemingly unproductive or neglected areas. In ancient agrarian societies, fallow ground referred to land that was left unplanted to restore its fertility. The poor, often lacking resources to cultivate their land, still possess the potential for abundance. This reflects the biblical principle that God provides for all, and even the least likely places can yield great blessings. The concept of fallow ground is also a metaphor for spiritual readiness, as seen in
Hosea 10:12, where breaking up fallow ground symbolizes preparing one's heart for righteousness.
but without justice it is swept away
This part of the verse underscores the importance of justice in maintaining and realizing potential. In biblical times, justice was a central theme, often associated with righteousness and fairness. The absence of justice can lead to the loss of resources and opportunities, as corruption and exploitation prevent the poor from benefiting from their potential. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes God's concern for justice, as seen in passages likeIsaiah 1:17, which calls for defending the oppressed. The sweeping away of resources without justice serves as a warning against societal structures that perpetuate inequality and highlights the need for godly governance and stewardship.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The PoorThis refers to individuals who lack material wealth or resources. In the context of this proverb, they possess potential resources (fallow ground) that are not fully realized due to external injustices.
2.
Fallow GroundThis is land that is left unplowed and unseeded for a period to restore its fertility. It symbolizes untapped potential or resources that could yield abundance if properly utilized.
3.
JusticeIn this context, justice refers to fairness and righteousness in societal structures and personal interactions. The lack of justice results in the poor being unable to benefit from their potential resources.
Teaching Points
Recognizing PotentialThe proverb teaches us to see the potential in what may seem unproductive or overlooked, such as the fallow ground of the poor. We should seek to cultivate and develop these resources.
The Role of JusticeJustice is crucial in ensuring that everyone can benefit from their potential resources. As Christians, we are called to advocate for justice and fairness in our communities.
Stewardship and ResponsibilityWe have a responsibility to be good stewards of the resources God has given us, ensuring they are used to benefit all, especially the marginalized.
Compassion for the PoorThis verse challenges us to have compassion for the poor and to work towards systems that allow them to thrive rather than be swept away by injustice.
Community and SupportThe church community should be a place where the needs of the poor are met, and their potential is nurtured through support and empowerment.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 13:23?
2.How can Proverbs 13:23 encourage responsible stewardship of resources in our lives?
3.What does Proverbs 13:23 reveal about the consequences of injustice and oppression?
4.How does Proverbs 13:23 connect with Jesus' teachings on justice and righteousness?
5.In what ways can we ensure "abundant food" is used to glorify God?
6.How can we apply Proverbs 13:23 to address poverty in our communities?
7.How does Proverbs 13:23 address the issue of social justice and inequality?
8.What historical context influenced the message of Proverbs 13:23?
9.How does Proverbs 13:23 relate to the concept of divine justice?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 13?
11.What does the Bible say about corporal punishment?
12.Proverbs 29:2 says people rejoice under righteous rulers; how does that hold up against historical instances where 'righteous' leaders failed to foster joy?
13.Proverbs 16:4 states God made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for a day of disaster--doesn't this suggest a divine origin for evil, conflicting with the idea of a just and loving God?
14.Why doesn't God forgive everyone unconditionally?What Does Proverbs 13:23 Mean
Abundant food“Abundant food” (Proverbs 13:23a) highlights the generosity of God’s design.
• God fills the earth with provision (Psalm 65:9–13;Matthew 6:26).
• The phrase affirms that, under normal circumstances, diligent labor yields plenty (Proverbs 12:11; 14:23).
• It invites gratitude and responsible stewardship, echoing2 Corinthians 9:10, where God “supplies seed to the sower and bread for food.”
is in the fallow groundThe “fallow ground” is land lying unused yet rich with potential.
• Untilled soil speaks of opportunity waiting to be cultivated (Proverbs 24:30–34).
•Hosea 10:12 urges, “Break up your fallow ground,” underscoring personal responsibility to act on the resources God has placed within reach.
• This principle applies beyond agriculture: talents, time, and ideas can remain untapped unless we engage them.
of the poorGod does not overlook the poor; He sees untapped potential in their plots, skills, and lives.
• Poverty is real, yet dignity and capacity remain (Psalm 113:7;Proverbs 14:31).
• Scripture shows the Lord as Defender of the needy (Proverbs 19:17) and calls His people to recognize their worth.
• The verse assures that even limited means can yield abundance when combined with faithfulness.
but without justiceJustice is the moral guardrail that allows the poor to benefit from their own fields.
• When fairness is absent—through oppression, corruption, or crooked systems—their produce is jeopardized (Isaiah 10:1–2;Amos 5:11–12).
•Proverbs 28:3 depicts a “poor man who oppresses the poor,” reminding us that injustice can come from any quarter.
• God requires rulers, employers, and neighbors alike to uphold equity so that labor’s reward reaches those who earned it.
it is swept awayThe final warning pictures harvest being whisked off before the owner can enjoy it.
• “Swept away” suggests seizure, decay, or loss through neglect (Micah 2:2;James 5:4).
• Sin’s ripple effect means that when justice fails, society suffers; stolen abundance benefits no one for long (Proverbs 11:29).
• The verse calls believers to active advocacy—protecting the vulnerable so their God-given increase is preserved.
summaryProverbs 13:23 affirms that God has embedded plenty even in the humblest circumstances; diligent effort on seemingly unpromising ground can yield rich reward. Yet the verse also warns that, if justice is denied, that reward disappears. The Lord thus calls His people to honor both sides of the equation—work responsibly and defend righteousness—so that every person, including the poor, may enjoy the harvest God intends.
(23)
Tillage.--Properly,
the newly-made field,on which much labour has been expended. The poor hardworking man, by God's blessing, gains an abundant living, while many (rich persons) are ruined for their neglect of what is right.
Verse 23. -
Much food is in the tillage (tilled ground)
of the poor (
Proverbs 12:11). The word rendered "tillage" (
nir) means ground worked for the first time, and therefore that on which much labour is bestowed. Hence the Vulgate rightly renders,
novalibus. It occurs in
Jeremiah 4:3 and
Hosea 10:12, where our version has "fallow ground." The poor, but righteous man, who industriously cultivates his little plot of ground, secures a good return, and is happy in eating the labour of his hands (
Psalm 128:2). Intend of "the poor," the Vulgate has, "the fathers," taking
ראשים in this sense; so that the meaning would be that children who properly cultivate their paternal or hereditary fields obtain good crops. But the Authorized Version rendering is doubtless preferable.
There is that is destroyed for want of judgment; rather, as the Revised Version,
by reason of injustice. Rich men are often brought to ruin by their disregard of right and justice (
mishpat). Some (poor men) are amply supplied by honest labour; others (rich) lose all by wrong dealing. Vulgate, "For others it (food) is gathered contrary to justice;" Septuagint, quite astray, The righteous shall pass many years in wealth; but the unrighteous shall suddenly perish" - which seems to be an explanation or amplification of ver. 22.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Abundantרָב־(rāḇ-)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7230:Multitude, abundance, greatnessfoodאֹ֭כֶל(’ō·ḵel)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 400:Food[is in] the fallow groundנִ֣יר(nîr)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 5215:Plowing, freshly plowed landof the poor,רָאשִׁ֑ים(rā·šîm)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 7326:To be in want or poorbut withoutבְּלֹ֣א(bə·lō)Preposition-b | Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nojusticeמִשְׁפָּֽט׃(miš·pāṭ)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4941:A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, styleit isוְיֵ֥שׁ(wə·yêš)Conjunctive waw | Adverb
Strong's 3426:Being, substance, existence, isswept away.נִ֝סְפֶּ֗ה(nis·peh)Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 5595:To sweep or snatch away, catch up
Links
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 13:23 An abundance of food is in poor (Prov. Pro Pr) 
