Proverbs 27:25

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

Proverbs 27:25 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 27:25

The hay appeareth, and the tender grass showeth itself
Some think this is mentioned to illustrate the uncertainty of riches, which soon vanish away; as the tender grass shows itself, and is presently cut down and quickly appears hay, and that soon consumed; but rather this contains an argument to take to the pastoral life and calling, since it may be performed with so much ease; for the earth, the valleys and hills, are covered with grass for the cattle; so that there is no further trouble than to drive the flocks into the pastures, and feed them there; or to cut down the grass, and make hay of it, and lay it up against the winter for fodder for them. The first clause, I think, may be rendered, "the hay removes" F21, or is carried off; the grass being fit to cut, is mowed and made hay of, and that is carried off and laid up for the winter: "and the tender grass showeth itself"; springs up after the hay is carried off and so makes a second crop; or, however, becomes good pasture for cattle to feed on; and herbs of the mountains are gathered;
for the present use of the cattle; or being made hay of, are laid up for future use; or are gathered for medicine; many of this kind grow on mountains.


FOOTNOTES:

F21 (hlg) "migrat", Cocceius; "cum migraverit", Michaelis.

Proverbs 27:25 In-Context

23 Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds;
24 for riches do not last for ever; and does a crown endure to all generations?
25 When the grass is gone, and the 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;
27 there will be enough goats' milk for your food, for the food of your household and maintenance for your maidens.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.