Proverbs 30:25

Old Testament Wisdom/Poetry ASV (1901)

What does Proverbs 30:25 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “The ants are a people not strong, Yet they provide their food in the summer;” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

The ants are a people not strong, Yet they provide their food in the summer;

Proverbs 30:25 — American Standard Version

Context — Proverbs 30

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.

22For a servant when he is king; And a fool when he is filled with food;

23For an odious woman when she is married; And a handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

24There are four things which are little upon the earth, But they are exceeding wise:

25The ants are a people not strong, Yet they provide their food in the summer;

26The conies are but a feeble folk, Yet make they their houses in the rocks;

27The locusts have no king, Yet go they forth all of them by bands;

28The lizard taketh hold with her hands, Yet is she in kings` palaces.

← Proverbs 30:24 Proverbs 30:26 →

← Full Chapter 30 Proverbs Overview

What do historical commentaries say?

Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary

“See the marginal reference note. Note the word “people” applied here to ants, as to locusts in Joel 1:6. The marvel lies in their collective, and, as it were, organized action. return to 'Top of Page'”

Read attributed excerpt →

Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge

R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work

“The ants may truly be called a people, as they have houses, towns, public roads, etc.; and shew their wisdom and prudence by preparing their meat in due season. Pro 6:6-8 Proverbs 30:26”

Read attributed excerpt →

Related study paths

Read Proverbs 30 in context Browse Hebrew word studies Open this verse in the study reader

Sources and verification

Scripture text: American Standard Version (1901), public domain.
Historical commentary excerpts are attributed to the named author and work shown above.
Last text and source check: 20 August 2026