Proverbs 21:31
New International Version
The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.

New Living Translation
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

English Standard Version
The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Berean Standard Bible
A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory is of the LORD.

King James Bible
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

New King James Version
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance is of the LORD.

New American Standard Bible
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But the victory belongs to the LORD.

NASB 1995
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But victory belongs to the LORD.

NASB 1977
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But victory belongs to the LORD.

Legacy Standard Bible
The horse is set for the day of battle, But salvation belongs to Yahweh.

Amplified Bible
The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance and victory belong to the LORD.

Christian Standard Bible
A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory comes from the LORD.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory comes from the LORD.

American Standard Version
The horse is prepared against the day of battle; But victory is of Jehovah.

Contemporary English Version
Even if your army has horses ready for battle, the LORD will always win.

English Revised Version
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but victory is of the LORD,

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Good News Translation
You can get horses ready for battle, but it is the LORD who gives victory.

International Standard Version
The horse may be prepared for the day of battle, but to the LORD goes the victory.

NET Bible
A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory is from the LORD.

New Heart English Bible
The horse is prepared for the day of battle; but victory is with the LORD.

Webster's Bible Translation
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is from the LORD.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory is of the LORD.

World English Bible
The horse is prepared for the day of battle; but victory is with Yahweh.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
A horse is prepared for a day of battle, "" And the deliverance [is] of YHWH!

Young's Literal Translation
A horse is prepared for a day of battle, And the deliverance is of Jehovah!

Smith's Literal Translation
The horse is prepared for the day of war and salvation is to Jehovah.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The horse is prepared for the day of battle: but the Lord giveth safety.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The horse is prepared for the day of battle. But the Lord bestows salvation.

New American Bible
The horse is equipped for the day of battle, but victory is the LORD’s.

New Revised Standard Version
The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The horse may be prepared for the day of battle; but salvation is of the LORD.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The horse is prepared for the day of war, but salvation is of LORD JEHOVAH.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The horse is prepared against the day of battle; But victory is of the LORD.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
A horse is prepared for the day of battle; but help is of the Lord.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The King's Heart
30There is no wisdom, no understanding, no counsel that can prevail against the LORD. 31A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory is of the LORD.

Cross References
Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

Psalm 33:16-17
No king is saved by his vast army; no warrior is delivered by his great strength. / A horse is a vain hope for salvation; even its great strength cannot save.

Isaiah 31:1
Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in their abundance of chariots and in their multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD.

Jeremiah 17:5
This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes mere flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD.

1 Samuel 17:45-47
But David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. / This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand. This day I will strike you down, cut off your head, and give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the creatures of the earth. Then the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. / And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands.”

2 Chronicles 20:15
And he said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle does not belong to you, but to God.

Zechariah 4:6
So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts.

Hosea 1:7
Yet I will have compassion on the house of Judah, and I will save them—not by bow or sword or war, not by horses and cavalry, but by the LORD their God.”

1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

Ephesians 6:10-11
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. / Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.

2 Corinthians 10:3-4
For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh. / The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the flesh. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

2 Timothy 2:1
You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

1 John 5:4
because everyone born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world: our faith.


Treasury of Scripture

The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

horse

Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Psalm 33:17,18
An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength…

Psalm 147:10
He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.

but

Psalm 3:3,8
But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head…

Psalm 68:20
He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.

safety

Psalm 144:10
It is he that giveth salvation unto kings: who delivereth David his servant from the hurtful sword.

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Battle Belongs Deliverance Horse Overcome Power Prepared Ready Rests Safety Victory War
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Proverbs 21
1. The king's heart in the hand of the Lord














A horse is prepared for the day of battle
In ancient times, horses were a symbol of military strength and power. Preparing a horse for battle involved extensive training and equipping, reflecting human effort and strategy. This phrase emphasizes the importance of preparation and diligence, acknowledging the role of human responsibility in warfare. Historically, horses were crucial in battles, as seen in various biblical accounts such as the Egyptian chariots pursuing the Israelites (Exodus 14:9). The preparation of horses can also symbolize the broader concept of readiness and planning in life’s challenges.

but victory is of the LORD
This phrase highlights the sovereignty of God over human affairs, particularly in the outcome of battles. Despite human efforts and preparations, ultimate success and victory are determined by God. This reflects a recurring biblical theme that God is in control, as seen in stories like David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17), where God grants victory against overwhelming odds. It underscores the belief that reliance on God is paramount, and human strength alone is insufficient. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 20:7, which contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the Lord. Theologically, it points to the idea that true victory, both in physical and spiritual battles, comes from God’s intervention and grace.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Horse
In ancient times, horses were symbols of strength and power, especially in warfare. They were essential for chariots and cavalry, representing human preparation and effort.

2. The Day of Battle
This refers to times of conflict or challenge, whether literal battles or metaphorical struggles in life. It emphasizes moments when human effort is put to the test.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His sovereignty and ultimate control over all events, including the outcomes of battles.
Teaching Points
Human Preparation is Necessary
While the verse underscores God's sovereignty, it also acknowledges the importance of preparation. We are called to be diligent and responsible in our efforts.

Ultimate Trust in God
Despite our preparations, we must place our ultimate trust in God. Recognizing His control over outcomes fosters humility and reliance on His wisdom and power.

God's Sovereignty in Life's Battles
In every challenge, whether personal, spiritual, or communal, we should remember that God is in control. This perspective can bring peace and confidence.

Balance Between Effort and Faith
Christians are encouraged to find a balance between doing their part and trusting God for the results. This balance is crucial for a mature faith.

Acknowledging God's Role in Success
When victories come, it is important to give credit to God, acknowledging His hand in our successes and blessings.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:31?

2. How does Proverbs 21:31 emphasize reliance on God over human efforts in battle?

3. What does "victory is of the LORD" teach about God's sovereignty?

4. How can we apply the principle of preparation and trust in our daily lives?

5. How does Proverbs 21:31 connect with Ephesians 6:10-18 on spiritual warfare?

6. In what ways can we balance preparation and faith in God's provision?

7. How does Proverbs 21:31 relate to the concept of divine sovereignty versus human responsibility?

8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 21:31?

9. How does Proverbs 21:31 reflect the theme of preparation and trust in God?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 21?

11. (Psalm 127:1) If a house can only stand with God’s help, why do we see so many successful endeavors achieved by purely human effort?

12. Why do different Old Testament books give conflicting numbers for the same censuses and battles?

13. What does "God fights our battles" mean?

14. Does the advice to sharpen the axe in Ecclesiastes 10:10 imply a reliance on human effort over divine intervention, creating tension with texts that stress faith and dependence on God?
What Does Proverbs 21:31 Mean
A horse

• In Solomon’s day, the horse represented the finest military technology available. Nations trusted cavalry for speed, power, and intimidation (Psalm 33:17: “A horse is a vain hope for salvation; even its great strength cannot save”).

• The mention of a single horse draws attention to what people naturally lean on—tangible assets, strategic plans, or personal abilities.

• We still tend to count on whatever feels strong in our lives: savings accounts, education, medical advances, political alliances (Isaiah 31:1).


is prepared

• Preparation is neither condemned nor discouraged. Proverbs consistently praises diligence and foresight (Proverbs 20:18; Luke 14:28-31).

• The verb “prepared” underscores intentional action: saddling, feeding, training, and arming.

• God grants wisdom for planning; to neglect preparation is presumption (James 2:17: faith acts).


for the day of battle

• The verse assumes that conflict will come; life includes days of battle whether literal warfare, spiritual warfare, or everyday crises (Ephesians 6:13).

• Strategic readiness has a proper place. Israel’s armies organized, trained, and armed themselves even while looking to God (Deuteronomy 20:1).

• Recognizing the inevitability of struggle helps believers avoid panic when the fight arrives (John 16:33).


but victory is of the LORD

• The conjunction “but” shifts focus from human effort to divine sovereignty. No matter how well the horse is readied, final outcomes belong to God alone (1 Samuel 17:47; 2 Chronicles 20:15).

• The word “victory” (deliverance, safety) reminds us that God not only determines who wins but also defines what true success looks like (Romans 8:37).

• Depending on the Lord liberates us from fear of insufficient resources and from pride when plans succeed (Psalm 20:7-8; Jeremiah 9:23-24).


summary

Preparation is wise and necessary, yet our best resources cannot guarantee success. We ready the “horse” with diligence, but we rest in the Lord who alone grants victory. Trusting Him turns human planning from a vain hope into an act of faithful stewardship.

(31) The horse is prepared against the day of battle.--These had been imported largely from Egypt in Solomon's time, though this was in direct contravention of the Law (1Kings 4:26, and Deuteronomy 17:16).

Verse 31. - The horse is prepared against the clay of battle. The horse is an emblem of military power and activity. To the earlier Jews, who were unaccustomed to its use, and indeed forbidden to employ it (Deuteronomy 17:16), the horse and horse-drawn chariots were objects of extreme terror (Joshua 17:16; Judges 4:3), and though Solomon had largely imported them from Egypt (1 Kings 4:26; 1 Kings 10:26, etc.), these animals were used exclusively for war, and, at this time, their services were never applied to agricultural purposes. The proverb asserts that, though all preparations are made for the battle, and material forces are of the best and strongest description, but safety (victory) is of the Lord (see Psalm 20:7; Psalm 33:16, etc.). Septuagint, "But from the Lord is the help (ἡ βοήθεια)." The great truth here taught may be applied to spiritual matters. The only safety against spiritual enemies is the grace of God; we can cry, with St. Paul (1 Corinthians 15:57), "Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." "By the name 'horse,'" says St. Gregory ('Moral.,' 31:43), "is understood the preparation of right intention, as it is written, 'The horse is prepared,' etc.; because the mind prepares itself indeed against temptation, but contends not healthfully unless it be assisted from above."



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
A horse
ס֗וּס (sūs)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5483: A swallow, swift (type of bird)

is prepared
מ֭וּכָן (mū·ḵān)
Verb - Hofal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3559: To be erect

for the day
לְי֣וֹם (lə·yō·wm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3117: A day

of battle,
מִלְחָמָ֑ה (mil·ḥā·māh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4421: A battle, war

but victory
הַתְּשׁוּעָֽה׃ (hat·tə·šū·‘āh)
Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8668: Deliverance, salvation

[is] of the LORD.
וְ֝לַֽיהוָ֗ה (Yah·weh)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared for the day (Prov. Pro Pr)
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