(The Lord speaking is red text)
They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
Those who spend their time over wine, those always trying out mixed drinks.
Those who linger over wine, who go to taste mixed drinks.
They that tarry long at the wine; They that go to seek out mixed wine.
They that tarry long{H309} at the wine{H3196}; they that go{H935} to seek{H2713} mixed wine{H4469}.
Proverbs 23:30, which reads, "They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine," is part of a larger section in the Book of Proverbs that warns against the dangers of alcohol and its potential to lead to moral and social ruin. The verse itself is succinct, but it speaks volumes within the context of the wisdom literature found in the Hebrew Bible.
In the historical context, wine was a common beverage in the ancient Near East, often diluted with water to reduce its potency. The mention of "mixed wine" likely refers to wine that has been blended with various spices and ingredients to enhance its flavor or to increase its intoxicating effects. The verse is a continuation of the admonitions against indulgence and excess that are found throughout Proverbs, reflecting a broader Ancient Near Eastern concern about the consequences of drunkenness.
The themes of this verse include temperance and self-control. It suggests that those who linger over their drinking or actively seek out stronger, more potent wine are at risk of the negative consequences associated with overindulgence. These consequences might include a lack of discipline, poor decision-making, and the potential for addiction and its associated problems. The verse serves as a warning to avoid the company of those who might encourage such behavior and to be mindful of one's own tendencies towards excess.
In the broader context of Proverbs, this verse is part of a collection of wisdom sayings that were likely compiled and edited over many centuries, with their origins in the oral traditions of Israel. These sayings were meant to guide individuals in living a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by prudence, righteousness, and the avoidance of folly. Proverbs 23:30, therefore, encapsulates the wisdom tradition's cautions against the pitfalls of overindulgence in alcohol, advocating for moderation and mindfulness in all aspects of life.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)