Proverbs 23 Commentary: Wisdom's Warnings and a Call to Discernment
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:
And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.
Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.
Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:
For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.
Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long.
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.
Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.
Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.
For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.
She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.
Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.
Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.
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.
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.
Proverbs 23, continuing from Proverbs 22:17, presents a collection of wise sayings, potentially gathered by Solomon, offering guidance on a variety of life's challenges. These instructions, addressed to a "son" (likely a student or mentee), cover topics ranging from social interactions and financial prudence to the vital importance of parental discipline and the dangers of intemperance. Understanding these warnings is crucial for navigating life with wisdom and integrity.
Navigating Social Interactions and Avoiding Deception (Proverbs 23:1-8)
The chapter begins with a caution about dining with rulers or those in power (Proverbs 23:1-3). Be wary of their hospitality, as it may come with hidden agendas. Extravagant gifts from the wealthy and powerful are often motivated by a desire to gain more from you than they give. It's crucial to be discerning, recognizing that their generosity might be a veiled attempt at manipulation or a thinly disguised bribe. Don't be overly eager to indulge in their lavish offerings, and never compromise your judgment for the sake of their generosity.
Similarly, Proverbs 23:6-8 warns against accepting invitations from stingy individuals. Like the rich man, the stingy man may also have ulterior motives for his gifts. Their motives might be self-serving, and their "generosity" could be a trap. Therefore, exercise caution and discernment in such situations.
The Pursuit of Wealth and the Value of Wisdom (Proverbs 23:4-5, 9-11)
The pursuit of wealth is addressed with a note of caution (Proverbs 23:4-5). While diligence is commendable, dedicating all your attention to accumulating riches can lead you to forsake your relationship with the Lord. Riches are fleeting; they can easily disappear. It’s important to maintain a balanced perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and godly relationships over the relentless pursuit of material possessions.
Proverbs 23:9 underscores the futility of sharing wisdom with a fool. Similar to Proverbs 9:7-9, this verse highlights that a fool will only despise and reject wise counsel. Save your breath and focus on those who are receptive to learning.
The chapter also touches on the importance of respecting boundaries and protecting the vulnerable (Proverbs 23:10-11). This echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 22:28, emphasizing the need to avoid moving ancient landmarks or encroaching on the property of orphans. God is a defender of the defenseless, and He will champion their cause.
The Significance of Discipline and a Kingdom Mind (Proverbs 23:12-16)
Proverbs 23:12 emphasizes the importance of applying yourself to discipline and listening to words of knowledge. This isn’t just about external correction, but about cultivating a mindset that seeks wisdom and understands its proper application.
Tony Evans notes that many believers suffer from "spiritual Alzheimer's," a deterioration in the application of the mind of Christ. This manifests as a loss of ability to apply a spiritual mind to daily interactions, and forgetting how to think in terms of God’s kingdom agenda. To combat this, we must transform our thought patterns and discipline our minds to focus on the realm of the Spirit. Often our greatest problem is not what we do; it’s the way we think. In order to transform what we do, we must transform our thought patterns and discipline our minds to focus on the realm of the Spirit.
The value of parental discipline is highlighted again in Proverbs 23:13-14 (see also Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; 29:15, 17). Corrective discipline, when administered with love and wisdom, can steer a child away from destructive paths and ultimately save their soul from destruction. It's an act of love, not cruelty, intended to guide them towards a life of righteousness. Wisdom in children brings joy to their parents (Proverbs 23:15-16). A child who walks in wisdom brings pride and satisfaction to their parents' hearts.
Avoiding Envy and Embracing Hope (Proverbs 23:17-18)
Don't envy the wicked (Proverbs 23:17-18, see also Proverbs 3:31-35; 24:1-2). Their apparent success is fleeting, and their future is uncertain. Instead, cultivate a heart that fears the Lord, knowing that true hope lies in Him and that there is a reward for the righteous.
The Perils of Drunkenness (Proverbs 23:19-35)
Proverbs 23 issues a stark warning against associating with drunkards and gluttons (Proverbs 23:19-21, see also Proverbs 20:1). Such individuals are prone to poverty and ruin. Exercise self-control and avoid their destructive lifestyle.
The dangers of alcohol abuse are described in vivid detail (Proverbs 23:29-35, see also Proverbs 20:1). Over-consumption leads to a host of problems: bloodshot eyes, confusion, impaired judgment, and a loss of control. The passage paints a picture of someone who is so enslaved to alcohol that they are willing to risk physical harm for another drink. While Scripture doesn't forbid all use of alcohol, it clearly condemns drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18).
Living a Life of Wisdom and Joy (Proverbs 23:22-28)
The chapter concludes with a call to honor your parents and seek wisdom (Proverbs 23:22-25, see also Proverbs 10:1; 22:6). A wise son or daughter brings joy to their parents' hearts. Similarly, Proverbs 23:26-28 (see also Proverbs 5:1-23; 6:20–7:27) warns against sexual immorality, comparing the adulterous woman to a dangerous trap.
Proverbs 23 offers a wealth of practical wisdom for navigating life's challenges. By heeding these warnings and embracing the principles of discernment, discipline, and devotion to God, we can live lives that are pleasing to Him and bring joy to ourselves and those around us.
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:
And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.
Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.
Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:
For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.
Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long.
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.
Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.
Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.
For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.
She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.
Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.
Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.
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.
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.
Proverbs 23, continuing from Proverbs 22:17, presents a collection of wise sayings, potentially gathered by Solomon, offering guidance on a variety of life's challenges. These instructions, addressed to a "son" (likely a student or mentee), cover topics ranging from social interactions and financial prudence to the vital importance of parental discipline and the dangers of intemperance. Understanding these warnings is crucial for navigating life with wisdom and integrity.
Navigating Social Interactions and Avoiding Deception (Proverbs 23:1-8)
The chapter begins with a caution about dining with rulers or those in power (Proverbs 23:1-3). Be wary of their hospitality, as it may come with hidden agendas. Extravagant gifts from the wealthy and powerful are often motivated by a desire to gain more from you than they give. It's crucial to be discerning, recognizing that their generosity might be a veiled attempt at manipulation or a thinly disguised bribe. Don't be overly eager to indulge in their lavish offerings, and never compromise your judgment for the sake of their generosity.
Similarly, Proverbs 23:6-8 warns against accepting invitations from stingy individuals. Like the rich man, the stingy man may also have ulterior motives for his gifts. Their motives might be self-serving, and their "generosity" could be a trap. Therefore, exercise caution and discernment in such situations.
The Pursuit of Wealth and the Value of Wisdom (Proverbs 23:4-5, 9-11)
The pursuit of wealth is addressed with a note of caution (Proverbs 23:4-5). While diligence is commendable, dedicating all your attention to accumulating riches can lead you to forsake your relationship with the Lord. Riches are fleeting; they can easily disappear. It’s important to maintain a balanced perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and godly relationships over the relentless pursuit of material possessions.
Proverbs 23:9 underscores the futility of sharing wisdom with a fool. Similar to Proverbs 9:7-9, this verse highlights that a fool will only despise and reject wise counsel. Save your breath and focus on those who are receptive to learning.
The chapter also touches on the importance of respecting boundaries and protecting the vulnerable (Proverbs 23:10-11). This echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 22:28, emphasizing the need to avoid moving ancient landmarks or encroaching on the property of orphans. God is a defender of the defenseless, and He will champion their cause.
The Significance of Discipline and a Kingdom Mind (Proverbs 23:12-16)
Proverbs 23:12 emphasizes the importance of applying yourself to discipline and listening to words of knowledge. This isn’t just about external correction, but about cultivating a mindset that seeks wisdom and understands its proper application.
Tony Evans notes that many believers suffer from "spiritual Alzheimer's," a deterioration in the application of the mind of Christ. This manifests as a loss of ability to apply a spiritual mind to daily interactions, and forgetting how to think in terms of God’s kingdom agenda. To combat this, we must transform our thought patterns and discipline our minds to focus on the realm of the Spirit. Often our greatest problem is not what we do; it’s the way we think. In order to transform what we do, we must transform our thought patterns and discipline our minds to focus on the realm of the Spirit.
The value of parental discipline is highlighted again in Proverbs 23:13-14 (see also Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; 29:15, 17). Corrective discipline, when administered with love and wisdom, can steer a child away from destructive paths and ultimately save their soul from destruction. It's an act of love, not cruelty, intended to guide them towards a life of righteousness. Wisdom in children brings joy to their parents (Proverbs 23:15-16). A child who walks in wisdom brings pride and satisfaction to their parents' hearts.
Avoiding Envy and Embracing Hope (Proverbs 23:17-18)
Don't envy the wicked (Proverbs 23:17-18, see also Proverbs 3:31-35; 24:1-2). Their apparent success is fleeting, and their future is uncertain. Instead, cultivate a heart that fears the Lord, knowing that true hope lies in Him and that there is a reward for the righteous.
The Perils of Drunkenness (Proverbs 23:19-35)
Proverbs 23 issues a stark warning against associating with drunkards and gluttons (Proverbs 23:19-21, see also Proverbs 20:1). Such individuals are prone to poverty and ruin. Exercise self-control and avoid their destructive lifestyle.
The dangers of alcohol abuse are described in vivid detail (Proverbs 23:29-35, see also Proverbs 20:1). Over-consumption leads to a host of problems: bloodshot eyes, confusion, impaired judgment, and a loss of control. The passage paints a picture of someone who is so enslaved to alcohol that they are willing to risk physical harm for another drink. While Scripture doesn't forbid all use of alcohol, it clearly condemns drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18).
Living a Life of Wisdom and Joy (Proverbs 23:22-28)
The chapter concludes with a call to honor your parents and seek wisdom (Proverbs 23:22-25, see also Proverbs 10:1; 22:6). A wise son or daughter brings joy to their parents' hearts. Similarly, Proverbs 23:26-28 (see also Proverbs 5:1-23; 6:20–7:27) warns against sexual immorality, comparing the adulterous woman to a dangerous trap.
Proverbs 23 offers a wealth of practical wisdom for navigating life's challenges. By heeding these warnings and embracing the principles of discernment, discipline, and devotion to God, we can live lives that are pleasing to Him and bring joy to ourselves and those around us.