Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 22:29
What does Proverbs 22:29 mean?
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Proverbs 22:29
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This verse isn't just saying hard work leads to success; it highlights that true diligence makes you indispensable. Diligence, described as being "expeditious" and "vigorous," elevates you so you're not just rubbing shoulders with ordinary folks, but are equipped to serve even royalty.
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This proverb appears within a collection of wisdom sayings that offer practical guidance for living a good and successful life. It follows verses warning against accepting bribes and speaking unjustly, suggesting that integrity in one's work is a direct pathway to honor and advancement. The saying implies that diligence and excellence will elevate a person beyond the ordinary, positioning them for opportunities and respect among influential people, rather than keeping them stuck with those of lesser standing.
What does it truly mean to be 'skillful' in your work? It's more than just getting by; it’s about a dynamic engagement with your tasks.
The Hebrew word translated as 'skillful' here (מהיר - mahir) actually carries the sense of being 'swift,' 'expeditious,' or 'quick in dispatch.'
This isn't about rushing carelessly, but about approaching your work with energy, efficiency, and a readiness to act. It suggests someone who not only does a job well but does it with vigor and promptness, making quick and wise decisions to execute tasks effectively.
This kind of active, skillful diligence sets a person apart.
The proverb contrasts two very different destinations for a person's career. Where do you naturally tend to end up?
The verse paints a clear picture: a skillful, diligent person 'will not stand before obscure men.'
Think about who 'obscure men' are – those of low repute, little influence, or simply people easily overlooked. This proverb asserts that true competence lifts you out of such company.
Instead, this diligent individual 'will stand before kings.' This doesn't necessarily mean a literal position in royal court (though it could), but rather that their skills will earn them access to, and respect from, important people and significant opportunities. Their competence commands attention at the highest levels.
Understand the original words
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mahir · Hebrew Adjective
Refers to an individual who possesses excellence, diligence, and expertise in their trade or craft. This term emphasizes the value of hard work, competence, and reliability, which leads to honor and advancement in society.
yatsab · Hebrew Verb
In the context of Proverbs, this phrase refers to occupying a position of influence, favor, or service in the presence of rulers and people of high status. It signifies the reward of wisdom, diligence, and excellence in one's vocation.
This passage shows Joseph, who was diligent and skillful in managing grain, eventually stood before Pharaoh, illustrating how competence leads to positions of influence.
1 Kings 10:8Queen of Sheba recognized Solomon's wise servants and their readiness to serve, highlighting that capable individuals are valued by even the highest rulers.
Daniel 1:19-20Daniel and his friends, because of their skill, wisdom, and diligence, were brought before King Nebuchadnezzar and proved themselves superior to other wise men.
Luke 19:15-19The parable of the minas shows a master rewarding servants who were diligent with the money entrusted to them, giving them authority over cities, mirroring the idea of promotion through faithful work.
clarkeProverbs 22:29: "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men."
He shalt not stand before mean men - חשכים chashukkim, dark or obscure persons; men of no repute. Na he schal ben before un-noble men - Old MS. Bible. "Not amonge the symple people." - Coverdale. The general meaning of the proverb is, "Every diligent, active man, shall be at once independent and respectable."
ellicottProverbs 22:29: "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men."
(29) He shall stand before kings.— Shall attend upon them as their minister. (Comp. Genesis 41:46 .) This verse is a tristich, containing three lines.
This verse isn't just saying hard work leads to success; it highlights that true diligence makes you indispensable. Diligence, described as being "expeditious" and "vigorous," elevates you so you're not just rubbing shoulders with ordinary folks, but are equipped to serve even royalty.
This proverb appears within a collection of wisdom sayings that offer practical guidance for living a good and successful life. It follows verses warning against accepting bribes and speaking unjustly, suggesting that integrity in one's work is a direct pathway to honor and advancement. The saying implies that diligence and excellence will elevate a person beyond the ordinary, positioning them for opportunities and respect among influential people, rather than keeping them stuck with those of lesser standing.
This proverb appears within a collection of wisdom sayings that offer practical guidance for living a good and successful life. It follows verses warning against accepting bribes and speaking unjustly, suggesting that integrity in one's work is a direct pathway to honor and advancement. The saying implies that diligence and excellence will elevate a person beyond the ordinary, positioning them for opportunities and respect among influential people, rather than keeping them stuck with those of lesser standing.
"Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men." — This verse isn't just saying hard work leads to success; it highlights that true diligence makes you indispensable. Diligence, described as being "expeditious" and "vigorous," elevates you so you'r…
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Last reviewed October 2026