What is the meaning of Proverbs 26:15?

The slacker

• Proverbs repeatedly contrasts diligence with laziness—see 6:9-11; 10:4; 24:30-34.

• Here the “slacker” is one who knows what should be done but refuses the effort (James 4:17).

• The label carries moral weight: idleness rejects God-given responsibility (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).

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Buries his hand in the dish

• The scene is mealtime; food is right before him, as in Proverbs 19:24, yet he only plunges his hand halfway.

• It pictures opportunity supplied by God—work, resources, abilities—ready for the taking (Deuteronomy 28:12).

• Laziness is not lack of provision but refusal to finish what’s started (Luke 9:62).

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It wearies him

• Sloth drains energy instead of saving it; apathy becomes exhausting (Ecclesiastes 4:5).

• Sin always promises ease but produces bondage and fatigue (John 8:34).

• Weariness here is self-inflicted: the slacker’s own choice saps his strength (Galatians 6:7-8).

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To bring it back to his mouth

• He stops inches from satisfaction—food wasted, hunger unmet (Proverbs 13:4).

• Spiritual parallel: hearing truth yet not obeying (James 1:22-24); intentions without action provide no nourishment.

• God calls for follow-through: “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).

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summary

Proverbs 26:15 paints a vivid, almost humorous picture to expose the folly of laziness. A slacker has every resource at hand but lacks the will to complete even the simplest task, forfeiting the blessing that diligent effort would secure. Scripture urges believers to reject such indolence, embrace responsible action, and honor the Lord through persevering work.