The name Agur comes from a Hebrew word meaning “collector.” Agur and Jakeh are only mentioned here in the Bible and are otherwise unknown. Agur’s proverbs offer insight regarding his thoughts on life. Agur was weary and worn out (verse 1), he did not consider himself wise (verses 2–4), and he considered God’s words completely true (verses 5–6). In Proverbs 30 Agur expresses to God a request that the Lord remove lying from him and give him neither riches nor poverty (verses 7–9). Agur’s teachings include a warning not to slander servants (verse 10) and an observation that many people see themselves as better than they really are (verses 11–14). Agur then begins a numbered list of sayings that includes three things never satisfied (the barren womb, the land’s need for water, and the end of a fire, verses 15–16). Verse 17 adds that the person who mocks his parents will experience judgment.
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