Four things on earthThis phrase introduces a list of four creatures, emphasizing their earthly nature. The number four often symbolizes completeness in the Bible, suggesting a comprehensive lesson from creation. The focus on "earth" highlights the tangible, observable world, inviting readers to learn from God's creation. This aligns with the biblical theme that nature reveals God's wisdom and order (
Psalm 19:1-4).
are small
The emphasis on smallness contrasts with the wisdom these creatures possess. In biblical terms, God often uses the small and seemingly insignificant to demonstrate His power and wisdom, as seen in the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17). This reflects the biblical principle that God values humility and can use the humble to achieve His purposes (James 4:6).
yet they are exceedingly wise
The wisdom of these creatures is described as "exceeding," suggesting a wisdom that surpasses human expectations. This wisdom is not based on size or strength but on God-given instincts and behaviors. The Bible frequently associates true wisdom with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), indicating that wisdom is a divine gift rather than a human achievement. The creatures' wisdom serves as a metaphor for spiritual insight and discernment, qualities that believers are encouraged to seek (James 1:5).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
AgurThe author of
Proverbs 30, Agur son of Jakeh, is a figure about whom little is known. His sayings are included in the wisdom literature of the Bible, emphasizing practical insights and observations about life.
2.
The EarthThe setting for the observations in
Proverbs 30:24, representing the natural world where these small creatures exhibit wisdom.
3.
The Four CreaturesWhile not mentioned in this specific verse, the subsequent verses (
Proverbs 30:25-28) identify the ant, the rock badger, the locust, and the lizard as examples of small creatures that demonstrate wisdom.
Teaching Points
Wisdom in HumilityThe small size of these creatures highlights that wisdom is not dependent on strength or stature. We should seek wisdom regardless of our position or power.
Learning from CreationGod's creation is a source of wisdom. Observing nature can teach us valuable lessons about diligence, community, and resourcefulness.
Value of PreparationLike the ant, we should prepare and plan for the future, using our resources wisely and diligently.
Community and CooperationThe locusts, which have no king yet advance in ranks, teach us the importance of working together harmoniously without needing a central authority.
Adaptability and ResourcefulnessThe lizard, which can be caught with the hand yet is found in kings' palaces, shows us the value of adaptability and finding ways to thrive in various environments.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 30:24?
2.How can we apply the wisdom of "small but exceedingly wise" in life?
3.What lessons from Proverbs 30:24 can improve our daily decision-making?
4.How does Proverbs 30:24 connect with Jesus' teachings on humility and wisdom?
5.In what ways can we emulate the wisdom of the creatures mentioned?
6.How does recognizing God's wisdom in creation strengthen our faith and trust?
7.How do the "four things" in Proverbs 30:24 demonstrate God's wisdom in creation?
8.What lessons can we learn from the "smallest creatures" mentioned in Proverbs 30:24?
9.How does Proverbs 30:24 challenge our understanding of strength and power?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 30?
11.What are the torments of Sheol?
12.What does the Bible teach about money?
13.How should we act in specific ethical situations?
14.What does the Bible say about Christian giving?What Does Proverbs 30:24 Mean
Four things on earthProverbs 30:24 sets the stage: “Four things on earth are small, yet they are exceedingly wise.” Agur has already used this “x-of-y” structure (Proverbs 30:15-16; 30:18-19; 30:29-31), inviting us to look at creation and draw lessons, just asJob 12:7-10 encourages, “Ask the beasts, and they will teach you.”
•The “four” are named in verses 25-28—ants, rock badgers, locusts, and a lizard—common creatures anyone can observe.
•The focus is earthly, everyday. God often hides lessons in plain sight (Romans 1:20).
•This reminds us that wisdom is not locked in ivory towers; it can be gleaned from the dirt under our feet.
are smallSize is the point of surprise. “Do not despise these small beginnings” (Zechariah 4:10).
•Small in strength: each creature is vulnerable on its own (1 Samuel 17:33 contrasts David’s small stature with Goliath).
•Small in status: “The one who is least among you, this is the greatest” (Luke 9:48).
•Small in resources: God “chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27).
•In God’s economy, littleness positions us to rely on Him, not on muscle or notoriety.
yet they are exceedingly wiseThe surprise twist: limitation does not limit wisdom. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 1:7).
•Ants (v 25) plan ahead, storing food—echoingProverbs 6:6-8 and teaching diligence.
•Rock badgers (v 26) find refuge in crags—picturePsalm 46:1, seeking safety in a greater strength.
•Locusts (v 27) advance in unified ranks—mirroringEcclesiastes 4:9-12 on the power of cooperation.
•The lizard (v 28) slips into palaces—illustratingMatthew 10:16, being “shrewd as serpents” yet harmless.
•Wisdom here is practical, lived, and observable.James 3:13 asks, “Who is wise and understanding? Let him show it by his good conduct.” These creatures preach that sermon without words.
•Their example calls believers to “walk circumspectly, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time” (Ephesians 5:15-16) and to number our days so we may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12).
summaryProverbs 30:24 reminds us that God embeds profound wisdom in modest packages. Four ordinary, earthbound creatures—tiny and seemingly insignificant—display foresight, security, unity, and strategic boldness. Their lives call us to humbly recognize our own smallness, lean on the Lord, and put His practical wisdom into action day by day.
Verses 24-28. - Four things small and weak, and yet wise.
Verse 24. -
There be four things which are little upon the earth, in contrast with the intolerable pretensions of the last group. The Vulgate has
minima; but the original is not superlative, which would not be true of some of the creatures named.
But they are exceeding wise; "quick of wit, wise," the participle
מְחֻכִּמִים meaning "rendered wise, cunning" (Delitzsch). The Septuagint and Vulgate translate in the comparatives. "These are wiser than the wise," the instincts of these animals being more marvellous than human wisdom.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Fourאַרְבָּ֣עָה(’ar·bā·‘āh)Number - masculine singular
Strong's 702:Fourthings on earthאָ֑רֶץ(’ā·reṣ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 776:Earth, landare small,קְטַנֵּי־(qə·ṭan·nê-)Adjective - masculine plural construct
Strong's 6996:Small, young, unimportantyet theyהֵ֭ם(hêm)Pronoun - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1992:Theyare exceedinglyמְחֻכָּמִֽים׃(mə·ḥuk·kā·mîm)Verb - Pual - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 2449:To be wisewise:חֲכָמִ֥ים(ḥă·ḵā·mîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 2450:Wise
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 30:24 There are four things which are little (Prov. Pro Pr) 
