1 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what [is] before thee:
2 And put a knife to thy throat, if thou [be] a man given to appetite.
3 Be not desirous of his dainties: for they [are] deceitful meat.
4 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for [riches] certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
6 Eat thou not the bread of [him that hath] an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:
7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so [is] he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart [is] not with thee.
8 The morsel [which] thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:
11 For their redeemer [is] mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
12 Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
13 Withhold not correction from the child: for [if] thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
14 Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
15 My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.
16 Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.
17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but [be thou] in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
18 For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
19 Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.
20 Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:
21 For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe [a man] with rags.
22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth, and sell [it] not; [also] wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
24 The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise [child] shall have joy of him.
25 Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
26 My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.
27 For a whore [is] a deep ditch; and a strange woman [is] a narrow pit.
28 She also lieth in wait as [for] a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.
29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, [when] it moveth itself aright.
32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.
33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.
34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.
35 They have stricken me, [shalt thou say, and] I was not sick; they have beaten me, [and] I felt [it] not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.
Analysis of Proverbs Chapter 23
Proverbs 23 is a chapter that offers a wealth of wisdom and practical advice on various aspects of life, including relationships, self-control, and the pursuit of righteousness. The chapter is structured as a series of admonitions and observations, often contrasting the behaviors and consequences associated with wisdom and folly.
Key Themes
- Self-Control and Moderation
The chapter emphasizes the importance of self-control, particularly in relation to food and drink. It warns against the dangers of gluttony and drunkenness, highlighting the negative consequences that can arise from a lack of moderation.
- Wisdom in Relationships
Proverbs 23 provides guidance on how to navigate relationships, particularly with those who may lead one astray. It advises caution in associating with those who indulge in excess and encourages the pursuit of wisdom and understanding.
- Value of Discipline
The chapter underscores the value of discipline, both in terms of personal behavior and in the upbringing of children. It advocates for corrective measures that lead to growth and maturity.
- Perspective on Wealth
Proverbs 23 addresses the transient nature of wealth and the folly of placing too much value on material possessions. It encourages a focus on spiritual and moral wealth rather than purely material gain.
Detailed Breakdown
- Verses 1-3: Caution at the Table
These verses introduce the idea of being mindful of the company one keeps, particularly when dining with influential or wealthy individuals. The advice is to be cautious and not be tempted by the allure of rich foods, which can lead to gluttony.
- Verses 4-5: The Futility of Wealth
These verses remind readers that wealth is fleeting and should not be the ultimate goal in life. The imagery of gazing at riches that can vanish emphasizes the importance of focusing on enduring values rather than material wealth.
- Verses 6-8: Avoiding Deceitful Friends
These verses warn against associating with those who are deceitful and greedy. The consequences of such relationships can lead to ruin and regret, reinforcing the theme of choosing wise companions.
- Verses 9-12: The Value of Wisdom
Here, the text encourages the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, particularly in the context of teaching and guiding children. The importance of listening to wise counsel is emphasized, as it leads to growth and enlightenment.
- Verses 13-14: Discipline as a Form of Love
The chapter discusses the necessity of discipline in raising children, presenting it as an act of love. Proper correction is portrayed as essential for developing character and virtue.
- Verses 15-16: Joy in Wisdom
These verses express the joy that comes from wisdom, particularly in the context of familial relationships. A wise child brings joy to their parents, highlighting the reciprocal nature of wisdom and happiness.
- Verses 17-18: Hope for the Future
These verses encourage readers not to envy sinners but to remain steadfast in their pursuit of righteousness. The promise of a future reward for those who fear the Lord is a recurring theme in Proverbs.
- Verses 19-21: The Dangers of Excess
The text warns against the dangers of indulgence in alcohol and the company of those who partake excessively. The consequences of such behavior are depicted vividly, serving as a cautionary tale.
- Verses 22-25: Honor Your Parents
These verses stress the importance of honoring one’s parents, as they are a source of wisdom and guidance. The blessings that come from respecting parental authority are highlighted.
- Verses 26-28: The Allure of the Immoral
The chapter warns against the seduction of immoral behavior, emphasizing the destructive consequences of such choices. It calls for vigilance and discernment in avoiding temptation.
- Verses 29-35: The Consequences of Drunkenness
In the closing verses, the text provides a stark depiction of the effects of excessive drinking, portraying it as a source of sorrow and conflict. The imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the pitfalls associated with a lack of self-control.
Conclusion
Proverbs 23 serves as a profound reminder of the importance of wisdom, self-control, and the pursuit of righteousness in everyday life. It encourages readers to cultivate relationships that foster growth, to exercise discipline, and to maintain a proper perspective on wealth and indulgence. The chapter’s teachings remain relevant, offering timeless guidance for navigating the complexities of human behavior and relationships.
