God’s faithful provision meets the diligent worker at every turn.
In the translation, Proverbs 27:27 says, “And there will be goats’ milk enough for your food, for the food of your household, And sustenance for your maidens.” (v.27) This verse completes a series of thoughts about diligence, hard work, and the blessing of caring for one’s resources. Goats were among the important livestock in ancient Israel. Their milk was a staple, used widely for basic nutrition and sustenance. This passage demonstrates the practical result of industry: if one tends flocks carefully, God’s provision follows (Matthew 6:33), ensuring nourishment for everyone under one’s roof.
When Solomon wrote this proverb, likely around 970-930 BC, he addressed a context where family livelihood was intimately connected to agriculture and livestock. The phrase “for your household” (v.27) underscores the responsibility to care for neighbors and family. Ancient Israel’s economy relied on small-scale herding, and shepherds roamed the hilly slopes around cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and beyond. In this agrarian society, a steady supply of goats’ milk provided both essential proteins and an assurance of God’s everyday faithfulness (see Psalm 23:1 for a parallel on God’s provision).
Solomon also points out that diligent tending of animals yields “sustenance for your maidens” (v.27), implying that caring for dependents reflects a faithful, godly stewardship. This principle parallels Jesus’ teaching on using our resources well and blessing those in need (Luke 6:38). Through consistency in the humble work of livestock management, a believer in ancient Israel would recognize God as the ultimate source of provision and security.
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Proverbs 27:27 meaning
In the translation, Proverbs 27:27 says, “And there will be goats’ milk enough for your food, for the food of your household, And sustenance for your maidens.” (v.27) This verse completes a series of thoughts about diligence, hard work, and the blessing of caring for one’s resources. Goats were among the important livestock in ancient Israel. Their milk was a staple, used widely for basic nutrition and sustenance. This passage demonstrates the practical result of industry: if one tends flocks carefully, God’s provision follows (Matthew 6:33), ensuring nourishment for everyone under one’s roof.
When Solomon wrote this proverb, likely around 970-930 BC, he addressed a context where family livelihood was intimately connected to agriculture and livestock. The phrase “for your household” (v.27) underscores the responsibility to care for neighbors and family. Ancient Israel’s economy relied on small-scale herding, and shepherds roamed the hilly slopes around cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and beyond. In this agrarian society, a steady supply of goats’ milk provided both essential proteins and an assurance of God’s everyday faithfulness (see Psalm 23:1 for a parallel on God’s provision).
Solomon also points out that diligent tending of animals yields “sustenance for your maidens” (v.27), implying that caring for dependents reflects a faithful, godly stewardship. This principle parallels Jesus’ teaching on using our resources well and blessing those in need (Luke 6:38). Through consistency in the humble work of livestock management, a believer in ancient Israel would recognize God as the ultimate source of provision and security.