Proverbs 23:1 kjv
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:
Proverbs 23:1 nkjv
When you sit down to eat with a ruler, Consider carefully what is before you;
Proverbs 23:1 niv
When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you,
Proverbs 23:1 esv
When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you,
Proverbs 23:1 nlt
While dining with a ruler,
pay attention to what is put before you.
Proverbs 23 1 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Prov 23:2 | And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. | Emphasizes severe self-control over appetite. |
| Prov 23:6-8 | 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. | Warns against eating with malicious hosts, as the food may carry their ill intent. |
| Prov 4:23 | Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. | Highlights the necessity of guarding one's inner being and motives. |
| Prov 22:3 | A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. | Connects to foresight and discerning danger. |
| Prov 25:6-7 | Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men... for better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen. | Teaches humility and proper conduct in the presence of authority. |
| Rom 13:1-7 | Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers... for the powers that be are ordained of God. | Biblical injunction to respect and submit to governing authorities. |
| Matt 10:16 | Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. | Call for discernment and prudence in dangerous environments. |
| Luke 12:15 | And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. | Warns against avarice, which might be a temptation when eating with a ruler. |
| Phil 3:19 | Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. | Condemns those whose focus is on sensual appetite and worldly pleasures. |
| 1 Cor 9:25-27 | And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things... but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection... | Stresses self-discipline and mastery over the body. |
| 2 Pet 1:5-6 | And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience... | Lists temperance (self-control) as a crucial virtue, to be pursued with diligence. |
| Jas 1:13-15 | But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin... | Explains how desires, unchecked, lead to sin, relating to potential gluttony or desire for power. |
| Ecc 5:1-2 | Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools... Be not rash with thy mouth... | Applies principles of caution and careful conduct to religious settings, broader wisdom applies. |
| Rom 14:15-20 | But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died... For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink... | Principle of considering impact of food/actions on others, and not prioritizing food over spiritual matters. |
| 1 Tim 2:1-2 | I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority... | Instructs on prayer for rulers, implying wise conduct when interacting with them. |
| 1 Pet 2:13-17 | Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme... Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. | Reiterates respect for human authorities. |
| Gen 39:6-9 | Joseph's refusal to sin against Potiphar (a powerful ruler), despite temptation, shows prudence in such environments. | Example of resisting temptation while serving a potentate. |
| Dan 1:8 | But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat... | Daniel's discernment and restraint regarding royal food and its implications. |
| Isa 5:22 | Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink. | Denounces those consumed by excess in food and drink. |
| Prov 28:16 | The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days. | Connects leadership and covetousness, advising against similar temptations. |
Proverbs 23 verses
Proverbs 23 1 Meaning
Proverbs 23:1 instructs a person, when invited to dine with a ruler or one in authority, to exercise extreme caution and profound discernment regarding the entire situation, not merely the physical food presented. It emphasizes the need for wisdom, self-control, and careful consideration of one's conduct and the implications of the setting. This is a call to be deeply aware of the environment, the host's character, and potential pitfalls, rather than to be consumed by immediate gratification.
Proverbs 23 1 Context
Proverbs 23:1 is situated within the "words of the wise," a section of Proverbs (Proverbs 22:17-24:34) distinct from the direct teachings of Solomon in earlier chapters. This section comprises thirty sayings that offer practical life wisdom. The overarching theme of Proverbs is wisdom and discretion, teaching young men how to navigate life's complexities and pitfalls.
In ancient Near Eastern societies, sharing a meal was a highly significant social and political act. Feasts with rulers or nobles were not merely occasions for sustenance but were deeply embedded with protocol, status, power dynamics, and potential for influence or deception. An invitation from a ruler signified either high favor or a potential test. Improper behavior, such as gluttony, greed, or failing to discern a hidden agenda, could lead to loss of reputation, disfavor, or even endangerment. The historical context implies that rulers often tested or observed guests for character and loyalty, or even used meals to ensnare individuals through indebtedness or by exposing weaknesses. This verse warns against treating such an event lightly, polemically setting prudence and self-control against impulsive, self-serving, or undiscerning behavior.
Proverbs 23 1 Word analysis
- When thou sittest: The Hebrew kî-tēšēḇ (כִּי־תֵשֵׁב) implies a formal or deliberate act of taking a seat, not a casual encounter. It underscores a structured occasion, possibly by invitation, requiring respectful presence and heightened awareness.
- to eat: The Hebrew liḵôl (לֶאֱכוֹל) is the standard verb for eating. However, in this specific context, it transcends mere physical nourishment to represent the broader social, political, and relational act of sharing a meal, which carries significant implications.
- with a ruler: The Hebrew ’et-môšēl (אֶת־מוֹשֵׁל) refers to one who governs, a potentate, governor, or king. The presence of such a high-status individual changes the dynamic entirely. It introduces elements of power, influence, potential favor, but also possible manipulation, testing, or veiled threats. The counsel here is specific to navigating interactions with authority figures.
- consider diligently: The Hebrew bîn-yābîn (בִּין תָּבִין) is a powerful, intensive construction. The verb bîn means "to understand," "to discern," "to perceive," or "to distinguish." The repetition of the root word creates an emphasis, meaning "understand with understanding," or "surely discern," or "pay the utmost attention." It implies deep, reflective, insightful consideration, not just a superficial glance or automatic reaction. It signifies a profound level of discernment and forethought.
- what is before thee: The Hebrew maššet lᵉfānêkā (מַה שֶּׁלְּפָנֶיךָ) goes far beyond just the food on the table. It encompasses the entire situation: the host's character and intentions, the unspoken atmosphere, any potential traps (as implied in subsequent verses, e.g., the "evil eye" or "deceitful food" of Prov 23:6), the political implications, the expectations for conduct, and the long-term consequences of one's words and actions in such a high-stakes setting. It demands comprehensive awareness of all variables.
Proverbs 23 1 Bonus section
This proverb serves as a crucial introductory statement to a section specifically dealing with the dangers of gluttony and being tempted by powerful figures (Prov 23:1-8). The urgency conveyed by "consider diligently" sets up the severe consequences hinted at in subsequent verses, such as putting "a knife to your throat" (Prov 23:2) if one is unrestrained, or falling prey to the deceitful hospitality of "him that hath an evil eye" (Prov 23:6). It suggests that the invitation itself, though seemingly benign, could be a test, a snare, or a moment where character is critically observed. The phrase "what is before thee" can also subtly allude to future consequences, not just present realities, implying a need for foresight and strategic thinking in addition to immediate perception.
Proverbs 23 1 Commentary
Proverbs 23:1 is a foundational warning about exercising profound wisdom and self-control when engaging with people in positions of power. It shifts focus from merely consuming food to meticulously assessing the entire social dynamic. The "ruler" represents a powerful figure who can significantly impact one's future, positively or negatively. Thus, "considering diligently what is before thee" is a multi-faceted injunction:
- Discernment of intentions: Understand the host's motives and character (they may have "an evil eye" or "deceitful dainties").
- Self-awareness: Be mindful of your own appetites, weaknesses, and desires for worldly gain or favor. The temptation isn't just gluttony but succumbing to the allure of status or trying to curry favor.
- Situational awareness: Analyze the political, social, and spiritual implications of the meal. What are the rules of decorum? Are there hidden agendas? What message do my actions send?
- Self-control: This verse sets the stage for the strong command in verse 2 about restraining one's appetite, extending to all desires in such an environment.
The advice implies that external circumstances demand internal discipline and vigilance. True wisdom in such situations lies not in feasting sumptuously, but in guarded behavior, integrity, and profound insight. This verse teaches us to navigate opportunities carefully, recognizing potential perils and prioritizing wisdom over immediate gratification or perceived advantage.
Examples:
- A job candidate at a high-stakes dinner interview carefully observing the company culture and interviewer's expectations, rather than just focusing on the meal.
- An employee during a business meal with a superior, discerning the true intent behind certain topics of conversation and responding with prudence.
- A public figure maintaining discretion and humility in a celebratory banquet, aware of scrutiny and the need for exemplary conduct.