Text -- Proverbs 12:11 (NET)

12:11 The one who works his field will have plenty of food, but whoever chases daydreams lacks wisdom.

Commentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes

NET Notes: Pro 12:11

¹ sn In the biblical period agriculture was the most common occupation for the people; so “working a field” describes a substantial occupation, but also represents working in general. Diligent work, not get-rich-quick schemes, is the key to ensuring income.

² tn Heb “will have his fill of” or “will be satisfied with.”

³ tn Heb “empty things” or “vain things.” The term רֵיקִים (reqim) refers to worthless pursuits in an effort to make money. The fact that the participle used is “chase after” shows how elusive these are. Cf. NIV “fantasies”; NCV “empty dreams”; TEV “useless projects.”

⁴ tn Heb “heart.” The term לֵב (lev, “heart”) functions as a metonymy of association for wisdom (BDB 524 s.v. 3).