Proverbs 23:32 kjv

At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

Proverbs 23:32 nkjv

At the last it bites like a serpent, And stings like a viper.

Proverbs 23:32 niv

In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.

Proverbs 23:32 esv

In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.

Proverbs 23:32 nlt

For in the end it bites like a poisonous snake;
it stings like a viper.

Proverbs 23 verses

Proverbs 23 32 Meaning

Proverbs 23:32 powerfully warns against the deceptive and destructive nature of excessive indulgence, specifically concerning wine, stating that its ultimate outcome is harmful and deadly, akin to the bite of a serpent or the sting of a viper. What may begin as pleasure will culminate in pain, illness, ruin, and spiritual decay, highlighting the insidious and delayed but inevitable consequences of unchecked desire.

Proverbs 23 32 Context

Proverbs chapter 23 belongs to a larger section (chapters 22:17-24:34) known as the "Sayings of the Wise," distinct from Solomon's proverbs. This chapter delivers practical wisdom concerning various aspects of life, including dining with rulers, managing wealth, and specifically, the dangers of gluttony and excessive wine consumption. Verses 29-35 of this chapter focus intently on depicting the consequences of drunkenness, with verse 32 serving as the climax of this vivid portrayal. The historical and cultural context recognizes wine as a common beverage in ancient Israel, consumed in moderation and celebrated (Ps 104:15). However, its abuse was consistently condemned as leading to folly, poverty, and spiritual estrangement. The imagery of the serpent and viper would have resonated strongly, as these creatures were symbols of hidden danger, sudden strike, and lethal consequences from ancient times, referencing events like the Serpent in Eden (Gen 3) and the fiery serpents in the wilderness (Num 21).

Proverbs 23 32 Word analysis

• At the last (אַחֲרִיתָהּ - achărîtāh): This crucial phrase signifies the ultimate end, the final outcome, or the aftermath. It contrasts sharply with immediate gratification and superficial pleasure, emphasizing that the true danger of unchecked indulgence is not in the initial experience but in its eventual, destructive conclusion. It speaks to a cumulative and insidious process, highlighting that consequences, like venom, take time to fully manifest.
• it bites (יִשָּׁךְ - yiššāk̄): Derived from the verb נָשַׁךְ (nashakh), meaning "to bite," specifically referring to a snake's attack. This implies a sudden, sharp, and painful impact, often injecting venom. The action is covert and carries lethal intent, reflecting how addiction can subtly entangle and then deliver a devastating blow.
• like a serpent (כְּנָחָשׁ - kə·nā·ḥāš): The term for "serpent" or "snake" (נָחָשׁ - nachash) is used metaphorically. In biblical thought, the serpent often symbolizes deceit, temptation, hidden danger, and the introduction of sin (Gen 3). The comparison underscores the insidious nature of excess, which promises pleasure but delivers harm, acting with a cunning, silent, and deadly threat.
• and stings (וְיִפְרֹשׁ - wə·yip̄rōš): The verb is פָּרַשׁ (parash), which generally means "to spread," "to declare," or "to separate." In the context of a viper's action, some interpretations understand it as "to spread its venom," "to uncoil and strike swiftly," or to "wound deeply" with an agonizing and permeating effect. It highlights the internal and systemic devastation caused by the "venom." This word choice amplifies the lasting and penetrating suffering beyond the initial bite.
• like a viper (כְצִפְעוֹנִי - kəṣip̄‘ônî): Refers to a specific, highly venomous snake (צִפְעוֹנִי - tsiphe'oni), an adder or basilisks. Vipers are known for their swift strike and potent, fast-acting venom, often causing severe swelling, pain, and death. This image reinforces the deadliness and inescapable nature of the final consequences. While a serpent's bite is dangerous, a viper's "sting" (its specific, highly lethal method) signifies an even more certain and devastating outcome, signifying the potent and often sudden unraveling that addiction can bring after prolonged exposure.

Words-Group Analysis

• "At the last it bites and stings": This phrase encapsulates the core warning: the true cost of excess is not immediately apparent but unfolds over time. The actions of "biting" and "stinging" are linked, emphasizing the painful and damaging results that progressively spread and deepen, leading to comprehensive ruin rather than isolated harm.
• "like a serpent and like a viper": The use of two distinct but related venomous creatures reinforces the intensity, inevitability, and cunning nature of the danger. The general "serpent" brings to mind the original deception and Fall, while the specific "viper" adds an element of immediate and fatal toxicity, amplifying the deadliness and painfulness of the consequence. Together, they represent a deceptive yet ultimately lethal adversary, portraying the insidiousness and potency of uncontrolled sin.

Proverbs 23 32 Bonus section

• The progression described in the proverb closely mirrors the psychological and physiological stages of addiction, where initial euphoria gives way to tolerance, dependence, and eventually severe, self-destructive patterns.
• In the ancient Near East, snakebites were a common and feared cause of death, making the metaphor particularly impactful for the original audience. The chosen words for 'bite' and 'sting' might differentiate the method of venom delivery, further enhancing the vividness of the warning.
• This proverb provides a strong theological statement against gluttony and drunkenness not just as social evils, but as acts of folly that actively lead away from life and wisdom, echoing themes found throughout the entire book of Proverbs that wisdom leads to life and folly to death.

Proverbs 23 32 Commentary

Proverbs 23:32 stands as a solemn and pictorial warning against the insidious nature of excessive indulgence, particularly the consumption of strong drink. It beautifully illustrates a universal truth: what initially appears alluring or harmless eventually yields destructive results. The "serpent" imagery evokes deception and the initial subtle allure of sin, drawing on humanity's earliest encounter with evil. The "viper" then signifies the swift and deadly certainty of the ultimate consequence. The wisdom of this proverb lies in its prophetic insight into the progressive ruin caused by addiction, long before modern understanding. It highlights how temporary pleasure can lead to irreversible damage to health, finances, relationships, moral character, and ultimately, one's spiritual well-being. The message is to exercise restraint and recognize the delayed, but utterly devastating, 'sting' of reckless living. This proverb is a timeless call to self-control, for choosing foresight over immediate gratification, and recognizing that sin's pleasant facade always hides a deadly truth.