Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds,
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 27:23
What does Proverbs 27:23 mean?
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Proverbs 27:23
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The Hebrew word for "state" here literally refers to the "face" or "countenance" of the flocks, suggesting a deep, personal knowledge beyond just their numbers or physical condition. It calls for you to look closely and know them so intimately that you can discern their well-being, almost as if you knew each one individually. This isn't just about management; it's about a personal investment in what you've been entrusted with.
Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds,
English Standard Version (ESV)
This proverb is part of a section that contrasts the enduring peace of a simple, diligent life with the fleeting nature of wealth and power. It calls readers to embrace a grounded, responsible lifestyle, suggesting that true prosperity comes not from luxury or high status, but from attentive stewardship of what one has. The verses that follow will further explore the impermanence of riches and royalty, underscoring the wisdom of tending to one's own responsibilities.
Think about your most valuable possessions. What if neglecting them meant losing everything? This proverb urges a deep, personal understanding of what you own.
The verse calls for a detailed knowledge of your 'flocks and herds.' In ancient times, these were the primary form of wealth. Knowing their 'condition' meant understanding their health, numbers, and productivity.
This isn't just about livestock; it's a metaphor for any stewardship or responsibility.
What 'Knowing the Condition' Looks Like:
It's easy to hand off responsibilities to others, especially when life gets busy. But this proverb warns against a common pitfall that can lead to ruin.
The instruction to 'know well' and 'give attention' strongly implies that you shouldn't blindly trust your possessions or responsibilities solely to hired help.
Why Personal Oversight Matters:
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Possessions, wealth, even positions of influence – none of them last forever. What does it take to build something enduring?
The context of Proverbs 27:23-24 suggests that diligent care is essential for the perpetuation of wealth. Ancient riches, like flocks and herds, could easily be depleted without attentive management.
The Principle of Enduring Value:
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows His sheep intimately, illustrating the deep, personal care required in looking after a flock.
1 Peter 5:2This passage directly applies the shepherd's duty to spiritual leaders, urging them to 'shepherd the flock of God that is among you,' mirroring the diligence required in Proverbs.
Luke 12:42Jesus speaks of the faithful and discerning servant who is put in charge of his master's household, a parallel to the responsible oversight of one's possessions and work.
This apocryphal text echoes the sentiment, advising, 'If you have cattle, see that they are your own; and if they are for your profit, keep them with you,' emphasizing personal attention to one's assets.
pooleProverbs 27:23: "Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds."
To know the state of thy flocks; that thou mayst preserve and improve what thou hast, and take care that thine expenses may not exceed thine incomes. Flocks and herds are here put for all riches and possessions, because anciently they were the chief part of a man’s riches. Look well, Heb. set thine heart . Trust not wholly to thy servants, as many do, that they may give up themselves wholly to case a…
gillProverbs 27:23: "Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds."
Be thou diligent to know the state of flocks,.... In what condition they are; what health they enjoy; how fat and fruitful they be; what pasturage they have; and that they want nothing fitting for them that can be had and is necessary; and also the number of them. The calling of the shepherd is here particularly mentioned, because valiant, honourable, innocent, and useful; but the same diligence is t…
The Hebrew word for "state" here literally refers to the "face" or "countenance" of the flocks, suggesting a deep, personal knowledge beyond just their numbers or physical condition. It calls for you to look closely and know them so intimately that you can discern their well-being, almost as if you knew each one individually. This isn't just about management; it's about a personal investment in what you've been entrusted with.
This proverb is part of a section that contrasts the enduring peace of a simple, diligent life with the fleeting nature of wealth and power. It calls readers to embrace a grounded, responsible lifestyle, suggesting that true prosperity comes not from luxury or high status, but from attentive stewardship of what one has. The verses that follow will further explore the impermanence of riches and royalty, underscoring the wisdom of tending to one's own responsibilities.
This proverb is part of a section that contrasts the enduring peace of a simple, diligent life with the fleeting nature of wealth and power. It calls readers to embrace a grounded, responsible lifestyle, suggesting that true prosperity comes not from luxury or high status, but from attentive stewardship of what one has. The verses that follow will further explore the impermanence of riches and royalty, underscoring the wisdom of tending to one's own responsibilities.
"Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds," — The Hebrew word for "state" here literally refers to the "face" or "countenance" of the flocks, suggesting a deep, personal knowledge beyond just their numbers or physical condition. It calls for you…
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Last reviewed October 2026