As a frequent tour leader to Israel, one of my favorite spots to visit is the desert oasis of En Gedi near the Dead Sea. This is the location where David hid out from King Saul (1 Samuel 24). On most occasions, guests to the site can spot an unusual small brown furry creature (about the size of a ground hog or large rabbit) hanging out on the tops of trees or scrambling along the cliffs (Ps. 104:18). It is called by several names: coney (conie), Syrian Hyrax, or rock badger and is mentioned four times in the Bible. It is also an animal listed as unclean (Lev. 11:5), so Israelites were not allowed to eat them.

In Proverbs 30:24–28, we find a list of four small creatures that exhibit extraordinary wisdom, and one of them is the coney. Despite their size, these creatures demonstrate remarkable survival strategies that offer profound lessons. Verse 26 describes why they are a valuable object lesson—“hyraxes [coneys] are creatures of little power, yet they make their home in the crags.”

The coney is a small, defenseless animal. It lacks the physical strength and speed to escape predators, yet it survives and thrives in the rugged terrain by making its home among the rocks. This simple yet effective strategy highlights a key principle: Wisdom often involves recognizing our limitations and seeking protection and security in a place of strength.

The coney’s wisdom lies in its understanding of its vulnerability and its strategic use of the natural fortresses provided by the rocks. The coney’s behavior parallels our need to acknowledge our weaknesses and seek refuge in God, our rock and fortress. Psalm 18:2 declares, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge.”