Proverbs 16:33 (DRB)

Passage

Lots are cast into the lap, but they are disposed of by the Lord.

Nearby Context

Proverbs 16:31 Old age is a crown of dignity, when it is found in the ways of justice.

Proverbs 16:32 The patient man is better than the valiant: and he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh cities.

Proverbs 16:33 Lots are cast into the lap, but they are disposed of by the Lord.

Study Lenses

The verse centers on "lots", "cast", "disposed", and "lord". It is saying that the verse draws attention to "lots" and "cast", so its meaning should be read from those terms before moving to application.

The prior verse says "The patient man is better than the...", giving immediate footing for "lots" and "cast". In Proverbs context, the local focus is covenant, worship, and faithfulness.

A plain takeaway is to answer the verse's own emphasis on "lots" and "cast" with trust shaped by these words, not by a vague optimism outside the passage.