BibleWord.ai› Bible› Proverbs› Chapter 16› Verse 33

Proverbs 16:33

Old Testament Wisdom/Poetry ASV (1901)

What does Proverbs 16:33 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “The lot is cast into the lap; But the whole disposing thereof is of Jehovah.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

The lot is cast into the lap; But the whole disposing thereof is of Jehovah.
Proverbs 16:33 — American Standard Version

Context — Proverbs 16

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
30He that shutteth his eyes, [it is] to devise perverse things: He that compresseth his lips bringeth evil to pass.
31The hoary head is a crown of glory; It shall be found in the way of righteousness.
32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; And he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh a city.
33The lot is cast into the lap; But the whole disposing thereof is of Jehovah.
← Proverbs 16:32Proverbs 17:1 →
← Full Chapter 16 Proverbs Overview

What do historical commentaries say?

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Seemingly the most fortuitous events are ordered by God. Next: Proverbs Chapter 17”
Read attributed excerpt →
Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Disposing - Better, the judgment or sentence which depends upon the lot. The lots were thrown into the gathered folds of a robe, and then drawn out. Where everything seemed the merest chance, there the faithful Israelite teacher recognized the guidance of a higher will. Compare the case of Achan Joshua 7:18, and of Jonathan 1 Samuel 14:37-42. The process here described would seem to have been employed ordinarily in trials where the judges could not decide on the facts before them (compare Proverbs 18:18). return to 'Top of Page' Footnotes: Copyright Statement These files are public domain. Bibliographical Information Barnes, Albert. "Commentary on Proverbs 16". "Barnes' Notes on the Whole…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“The lot - As the ancient practice was in deciding doubtful things. The event of which though casual to men, is directed by God's providence. Next: Proverbs Chapter 17”
Read attributed excerpt →
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“16:33 We may throw the dice: These dice were not for gambling but were a means commissioned by God to determine his will (Exod 28:30; see also Josh 14:2; 1 Sam 10:17-27; 14:40-43).”
Read attributed excerpt →
Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Num 26:55-65; Jos 7:14, Jos 18:5, Jos 18:10; Sa1 14:41, Sa1 14:42; Neh 11:1; Jon 1:7; Act 1:26 Next: Proverbs Chapter 17”
Read attributed excerpt →

Related study paths

Read Proverbs 16 in contextBrowse Hebrew word studiesOpen this verse in the study reader

Sources and verification