Proverbs 27:23-24
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
The Hebrew word for "state" here literally means "the face" or "the appearance" of your flocks. This isn't just about knowing numbers, but about intimately observing their actual condition, as if you could read their well-being in their very countenance. It calls for a deep, personal engagement, not just a glance, urging you to truly see what's going on beneath the surface of your responsibilities.
Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage is part of a larger section that praises the stable prosperity and peace found in rural, pastoral life, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of wealth and even royal power. The author urges a hands-on, diligent approach to managing one's resources, using flocks and herds as a prime example of wealth that requires constant attention to thrive and endure. The verses that follow will continue to explore the value of diligent oversight in maintaining one's livelihood and security.
Imagine pouring all your energy into something, only to discover later it wasn't thriving. This proverb calls us to a deeper level of engagement with what matters most.
The Shepherd's Eye
In ancient times, a person's wealth was often tied directly to their livestock – their 'flocks' and 'herds.' This verse uses that imagery to teach a crucial lesson about stewardship. It's not enough to simply own things; you need to know them intimately.
What does 'know the condition' really mean?
This principle extends far beyond farming. Whatever you're responsible for – your job, your family, your finances, even your spiritual growth – requires this same hands-on diligence.
Ask a follow-up
While the image is of sheep and cattle, the wisdom here is timeless and applies to far more than just possessions. What else demands our careful attention?
Applying Ancient Wisdom Today
The proverb uses livestock as a metaphor. The core message is about responsible oversight, no matter the domain.
Understand the original words
chosen · Hebrew Noun
Possessions, wealth, or material abundance. Scripture consistently warns that these are temporary, subject to decay, and not to be trusted for ultimate security compared to the kingdom of God.
nezer · Hebrew Noun
A symbol of royal authority, sovereignty, and supreme power. Its inability to endure across generations signifies the fleeting nature of earthly political power and human empires.
Jesus describes the good shepherd who knows his sheep by name, highlighting the deep personal knowledge and care that Proverbs 27:23 calls for in managing one's responsibilities.
1 Peter 5:2This passage draws a direct parallel, urging church leaders (pastors) to 'shepherd the flock of God' that is under their care, applying the diligent oversight described in Proverbs to spiritual leadership.
Luke 16:10Jesus teaches that faithfulness in the management of worldly possessions ('unrighteous money') is a sign of one's fitness to be entrusted with greater spiritual responsibilities, echoing the principle of diligent stewardship in Proverbs.
Ecclesiastes 11:6This verse encourages investing diligently ('in the morning sow your seed, and at evening let not your hands rest') and trusting God for the outcome, which complements the proactive diligence commanded in Proverbs for managing one's affairs.
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 means "the face" or "the appearance" of your flocks. This isn't just about knowing numbers, but about intimately observing their actual condition, as if you could read their well-being in their very countenance. It calls for a deep, personal engagement, not just a glance, urging you to truly see what's going on beneath the surface of your responsibilities.
This passage is part of a larger section that praises the stable prosperity and peace found in rural, pastoral life, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of wealth and even royal power. The author urges a hands-on, diligent approach to managing one's resources, using flocks and herds as a prime example of wealth that requires constant attention to thrive and endure. The verses that follow will continue to explore the value of diligent oversight in maintaining one's livelihood and security.
This passage is part of a larger section that praises the stable prosperity and peace found in rural, pastoral life, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of wealth and even royal power. The author urges a hands-on, diligent approach to managing one's resources, using flocks and herds as a prime example of wealth that requires constant attention to thrive and endure. The verses that follow will continue to explore the value of diligent oversight in maintaining one's livelihood and security.
"Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?" — The Hebrew word for "state" here literally means "the face" or "the appearance" of your flocks. This isn't just about knowing numbers, but about intimately observing their actual condition, as if you…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026
