What does Proverbs 30:29 mean?

This passage repeats the poetic "number, plus one" technique seen elsewhere in Scripture (Proverbs 6:16; 30:15, 18, 21, 24; Job 5:19; Amos 1:3). Agur (Proverbs 30:1) uses the term "stately," from the Hebrew root word yatab. This is used for many ideas, all related to something beautiful or pleasing. This word was used for the way queen Jezebel arranged her hair prior to meeting her doom (2 Kings 9:30). Here, it implies something similar, as "stately" is a term often used of confident, collected leaders. The ideal image of a leader is one who is calm, controlled, and reassured. Agur will note four instances which exhibit this dignified, imposing way of movement: lions, roosters, rams, and a king at the head of a loyal army. These form an interesting contrast to the humble animals noted in the prior verses (Proverbs 30:24–28).

Agur's own humility (Proverbs 30:2), as well, is on display in his keen observations of nature. David also paid attention to animals and came away with a humbling sense of his own dependence on God (Psalm 23). He also marveled at God's creative power as displayed in nature (Psalm 8:3–4).