Proverbs 27:24

24 for riches do not last forever, nor a crown for all generations.

Proverbs 27:24 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 27:24

For riches [are] not for ever
A man cannot be assured of the continuance of them; they are uncertain things, here today and gone tomorrow: wherefore, though a man has a considerable share of them, yet should follow one calling or another; particularly husbandry is recommended, or keeping sheep and cattle, which are increasing; by which means his substance will be continued and augmented, which otherwise is not to be depended on, but in a diligent attendance to business; and doth the crown [endure] to every generation?
the royal crown, that is not to be depended upon; a king that wears a crown is not sure he shall always wear it, or that it shall be continued to his family one generation after another. And it is suggested, that it is not even beneath such persons to have a regard to their flocks and herds, and the increase of their riches in this way: the Chinese kings, many of them, formerly employed themselves in husbandry, and set examples of industry and diligence to their subjects ^F20; King Hezekiah provided himself possessions of flocks and herds in abundance, ( 2 Chronicles 32:28 2 Chronicles 32:29 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F20 Vid. Martin. Hist. Sinica, p. 92, 93, 326.

Proverbs 27:24 In-Context

22 Crush a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with crushed grain, but the folly will not be driven out.

23 Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds;

24 for riches do not last forever, nor a crown for all generations.

25 When the grass is gone, and new growth appears, and the herbage of the mountains is gathered,

26 the lambs will provide your clothing, and the goats the price of a field;