Proverbs 30:29-31
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The verse highlights that how something moves, its very stride, can convey profound dignity and power. The Hebrew suggests a "doing well" in marching and going, implying that these creatures and the king possess an innate, stately grace that commands attention and respect simply by their presence and movement.
Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride: the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any; the strutting rooster, the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse introduces a series of observations about impressive creatures and figures, highlighting their majestic and confident movement. Following a section detailing different types of foolishness and wisdom, Agur now turns to what inspires awe through their stately stride. The verses that follow will then list specific examples, culminating in a king, to illustrate this point of dignified progression.
Ever notice how some creatures just command attention when they move? It's more than just speed; it's about presence.
The writer, Agur, uses the Hebrew word 'ya'al,' which means 'to ascend' or 'to go up.' When applied to movement, it speaks of a dignified, stately, and even majestic gait. It’s not just about moving from point A to point B, but doing so with a sense of purpose and impressive bearing. Think of the confidence and gravitas that comes with such a walk. It suggests a natural authority and self-possession that draws admiration. Agur isn't just describing animals; he's holding up examples of excellence in bearing and movement.
When you think of a lion, what comes to mind? Power, sure, but also an unmistakable air of royalty.
The lion is often cited first because its walk is the epitome of majestic. It doesn't hurry; it doesn't show fear. It moves with a deliberate, unhurried confidence, surveying its domain. Its stride is firm, balanced, and commands respect. This isn't about aggression, but about inherent dignity and the quiet assurance of its place. It turns not away for any, suggesting an inner strength that doesn't need to flee or posture.
Beyond the kingly lion, Agur points to creatures known for their remarkable agility and focused movement. What can we learn from them?
The second and third examples, often identified as a swift creature like a greyhound and a determined he-goat, highlight different aspects of excellence in motion. The 'girt in the loins' refers to incredible speed and efficiency, moving with a purpose and power that is breathtaking. The he-goat, leading the flock, displays a sturdy, resolute stride, ready to defend and lead. These aren't just random animals; they represent different forms of excellence: keenness, speed, agility, and confident leadership. Agur shows us that 'going well' isn't one-size-fits-all; it can be found in raw power, swift execution, and steady resolve.
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Understand the original words
yatab · Hebrew Adjective
Having a majestic, dignified, or impressive manner; used to describe objects, creatures, or people that command respect through their presence or movement.
labi · Hebrew Noun
The apex predator and traditional symbol of strength, ferocity, and royalty, frequently representing power that does not retreat or surrender.
This passage vividly describes the majestic and powerful gait of a warhorse, highlighting its courage and impressive stride, much like the stately movements mentioned in Proverbs.
Song of Solomon 3:6This verse uses imagery of a procession to describe Solomon's journey, likening it to a litter carried by warriors and associating it with spices and incense, evoking a sense of royal procession and dignity.
Daniel 2:37The prophecy concerning Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom speaks of him as a great king 'against whom none can rise up,' echoing the description of a powerful king who walks with confidence and authority.
Lamentations 4:7Here, the princes of Zion are described as having once been 'plerer than snow, whiter than milk, ruddy than rubies, and their form finer than sapphire,' suggesting a noble and stately appearance that has now been lost.
clarkeProverbs 30:29: "There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:"
There be three things which go well - Here is another set of emblems; four things which walk beautifully and with majesty. 1. The lion. 2. The greyhound. 3. The he-goat. And, 4. A king. 1. Nothing can be more majestic than the walk of the lion. It is deliberate, equal, firm, and in every respect becoming the king of the forest. 2. The greyhound. זרזיר מתנים zarzir mothnayim, the girt in the loins; but what th…
bensonProverbs 30:29: "There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:"
Proverbs 30:29-31 . There be three things which go well — That walk decently, and with great alacrity and courage, or whose motion is majestic; A lion, which turneth not away for any — Doth not flee from his pursuers, whether men or beasts, but walks away with a slow and majestic pace, as is observed by Aristotle, and many others; A greyhound — Called in the Hebrew זרזיר מתנים , girt in the loins, either becau…
The verse highlights that how something moves, its very stride, can convey profound dignity and power. The Hebrew suggests a "doing well" in marching and going, implying that these creatures and the king possess an innate, stately grace that commands attention and respect simply by their presence and movement.
This verse introduces a series of observations about impressive creatures and figures, highlighting their majestic and confident movement. Following a section detailing different types of foolishness and wisdom, Agur now turns to what inspires awe through their stately stride. The verses that follow will then list specific examples, culminating in a king, to illustrate this point of dignified progression.
This verse introduces a series of observations about impressive creatures and figures, highlighting their majestic and confident movement. Following a section detailing different types of foolishness and wisdom, Agur now turns to what inspires awe through their stately stride. The verses that follow will then list specific examples, culminating in a king, to illustrate this point of dignified progression.
"Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride: the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any; the strutting rooster, the he-goat, and a king whose army is wi…" — The verse highlights that how something moves, its very stride, can convey profound dignity and power. The Hebrew suggests a "doing well" in marching and going, implying that these creatures and th…
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Last reviewed October 2026
