Ecclesiastes 10:17

KJV

Blessed [art] thou, O land, when thy king [is] the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!

KJV (with Strong's)

Blessed {H835} art thou, O land {H776}, when thy king {H4428} is the son {H1121} of nobles {H2715}, and thy princes {H8269} eat {H398} in due season {H6256}, for strength {H1369}, and not for drunkenness {H8358}!

Complete Jewish Bible

Happy are you, land, when your king is well-born, and your princes eat at the proper time, in order to stay strong, not to get drunk!

Berean Standard Bible

Blessed are you, O land whose king is a son of nobles, and whose princes feast at the proper time— for strength and not for drunkenness.

American Standard Version

Happy art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 10:17 articulates a profound principle of national flourishing, presenting a stark contrast to the preceding lament over foolish leadership. It declares a land blessed when its king is characterized by noble lineage and, more significantly, noble character, and when its governing officials exhibit self-control and discipline, partaking in sustenance for the purpose of strength and effective service rather than for self-indulgent excess or intoxication. This verse underscores the Preacher's conviction that the moral integrity, wisdom, and disciplined habits of those in authority are directly correlated with the well-being, stability, and prosperity of the entire society they govern.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a powerful antithesis to the "woe" pronounced in [Ecclesiastes 10:16](/ecclesiastes/10-16 "Ecclesiastes 10:16 - The Woes of a Childish King"), which laments a land whose king is "a child" and whose princes feast "in the morning." The broader context of [Ecclesiastes 10](/ecclesiastes/10 "Ecclesiastes 10 - Wisdom and Folly in Everyday Life") meticulously explores the practical manifestations of wisdom and folly within daily life, with a particular focus on governance and public service. The Preacher, often identified as King Solomon, observes that while folly can subtly corrupt even the most esteemed endeavors (like a dead fly spoiling ointment, as noted in [Ecclesiastes 10:1](/ecclesiastes/10-1 "Ecclesiastes 10:1 - The Small Folly that Spoils Wisdom")), the presence of wisdom in leadership is absolutely paramount for national flourishing. Verse 17 thus functions as an ideal, painting a vivid picture of the positive impact of virtuous and disciplined rule, thereby reinforcing the book's overarching theme concerning the diligent pursuit of wisdom in a world frequently marked by futility and unpredictability.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the king was not merely a political figure but often perceived as the embodiment of the nation itself. His personal character, moral conduct, and administrative decisions were widely believed to directly influence the land's prosperity, peace, or conversely, its misfortune and decline. A "son of nobles" would imply not only aristocratic birthright but, more critically, an upbringing that instilled the virtues of wisdom, discipline, and a profound sense of responsibility—qualities that stood in stark opposition to a "childish" ruler lacking maturity, foresight, and self-control. Feasting played a significant role in ancient court life, symbolizing wealth, power, and social cohesion. However, excessive feasting, particularly leading to drunkenness among rulers and officials, was universally recognized as a potent sign of moral decay. Such indulgence invariably led to the neglect of official duties, impaired judgment, and ultimately, national instability and decline. The emphasis on eating "in due season, for strength" reflects a deep-seated practical wisdom regarding moderation and purpose-driven consumption, which was deemed vital for leaders who needed to maintain mental clarity, physical vigor, and moral fortitude for their demanding and consequential roles.
* **Key Themes:** [Ecclesiastes 10:17](/ecclesiastes/10-17 "Ecclesiastes 10:17 - The Blessing of Noble Leadership") powerfully articulates several key themes that resonate throughout Ecclesiastes and the broader corpus of biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it champions the concept of **wise and noble leadership**, emphasizing that true nobility transcends mere birthright; it is fundamentally about character, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. Such leadership instinctively prioritizes the nation's strength and well-being over personal indulgence. Secondly, the verse highlights the critical importance of **self-control and moderation**, particularly within the context of wielding power. The disciplined eating habits of the princes serve as a potent metaphor for overall self-governance and responsible stewardship. This stands in sharp contrast to the destructive path of gluttony and dissipation, which can lead to foolish decisions and the profound neglect of public duty, as vividly warned in passages like [Proverbs 23:20-21](/proverbs/23-20-21 "Proverbs 23:20-21 - Warnings Against Gluttony and Drunkenness"). Finally, the verse profoundly underscores the theme of **national blessing and prosperity** as a direct and inevitable consequence of virtuous governance. A land is declared "blessed" not by mere chance or fate, but by the deliberate, wise choices and disciplined lives of its leaders, illustrating the timeless biblical principle that "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" ([Proverbs 14:34](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** H1121, from בָּנָה; a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc.). In the phrase "son of nobles," _bên_ signifies more than merely biological offspring. It denotes one who embodies and perpetuates the characteristics and qualities associated with the noble class, implying a person of inherent quality, mature character, and the capacity to build up and sustain the nation. This usage emphasizes the qualitative aspect of leadership rather than just the hereditary.
* **Nobles (Hebrew, _chôr'_):** H2715, from חָרַר; properly, white or pure (from the cleansing or shining power of fire; hence (figuratively) noble (in rank)). This term suggests a person of high birth, but more profoundly, one whose character is pure, refined, and untainted by the corruption often associated with self-indulgence or foolishness. This purity of character, likened to something cleansed by fire, is what truly makes a leader "noble" and worthy of bringing blessing to the land.
* **Strength (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwrâh'_):** H1369, feminine passive participle from the same as גִּבּוֹר; force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory; force, mastery, might, mighty (act, power), power, strength. Here, it refers to the physical and mental vigor, the robust capacity required to perform duties effectively and with clarity. Eating "for strength" implies a purposeful and disciplined approach to sustenance, aimed at maintaining the necessary energy, focus, and resilience for responsible governance, rather than for mere pleasure or debilitating excess.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Blessed [art] thou, O land,"**: This opening clause functions as a beatitude, a declaration of profound happiness, favor, or good fortune bestowed upon a nation. It immediately establishes a positive and hopeful tone, standing in stark contrast to the "woe" pronounced in the preceding verse. The blessing, however, is not arbitrary but contingent upon specific, discernible conditions related to the character and conduct of its leadership.
* **"when thy king [is] the son of nobles,"**: The first and foundational condition for a blessed land is the character of its monarch. As elaborated in the key word analysis, this phrase signifies a king who embodies true nobility—not merely by birth, but by mature character, disciplined conduct, and inherent wisdom. Such a ruler is capable of responsible, effective, and righteous governance, standing in antithesis to a king who is "childish" or servile to his desires.
* **"and thy princes eat in due season, for strength,"**: The second condition extends the principle of virtuous leadership to the king's officials and the broader elite. Their eating habits are presented as a powerful metaphor for their overall conduct and self-governance. "In due season" implies appropriate timing, moderation, and a sense of decorum, directly avoiding the early morning feasting associated with foolish rulers in [Ecclesiastes 10:16](/ecclesiastes/10-16 "Ecclesiastes 10:16 - The Woes of a Childish King"). Eating "for strength" means consuming food for sustenance, energy, and the physical and mental capacity to perform one's duties, reflecting a purposeful, disciplined, and responsible lifestyle.
* **"and not for drunkenness!"**: This concluding clause explicitly states the negative condition that must be avoided. It serves as a direct and emphatic prohibition against self-indulgent excess and intoxication. Drunkenness inherently impairs judgment, weakens resolve, and leads to folly, signaling a profound lack of self-control. All these outcomes are severely detrimental to effective leadership and ultimately undermine the well-being and stability of the nation.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 10:17 masterfully employs **Contrast** and **Parallelism** to convey its profound message. The verse functions as a direct antithesis to [Ecclesiastes 10:16](/ecclesiastes/10-16 "Ecclesiastes 10:16 - The Woes of a Childish King"), creating a stark juxtaposition between the dire consequences of foolish, indulgent leadership and the positive, flourishing outcomes of wise, disciplined rule. This **Antithetical Parallelism** powerfully highlights the Preacher's central message regarding the profound and far-reaching impact of leadership character on an entire society. Furthermore, the phrase "for strength, and not for drunkenness" utilizes **Antithesis** within the clause itself, presenting two diametrically opposing purposes for eating. This emphasizes the virtue of purposeful moderation over self-destructive excess, underscoring the moral choice inherent in a leader's daily habits. Finally, the "land" itself is subtly **Personified**, being capable of receiving a "blessing," which serves to underscore the direct and almost organic connection between the moral fiber of its leadership and the overall well-being and prosperity of the nation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 10:17 articulates a foundational principle deeply embedded in biblical wisdom literature: the character and conduct of leaders profoundly impact the well-being and spiritual health of the governed. This verse transcends mere political observation, elevating it to a theological statement about divine blessing and human responsibility. A "blessed" land is one where leaders embody self-control, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to their duties, thereby reflecting a divine order where righteousness and discipline lead to flourishing. Conversely, the absence of these essential qualities, marked by self-indulgence and folly, inevitably invites societal decay and divine disfavor. This principle resonates throughout the entirety of Scripture, affirming that God's favor and blessing rest upon nations and communities whose leaders walk in integrity and consistently prioritize the common good over personal gratification. It underscores the profound moral and spiritual dimension of governance, suggesting that true and lasting prosperity for a land is inextricably rooted in virtuous leadership that aligns itself with divine principles of order, discipline, and justice.

* [Proverbs 29:2](/proverbs/29-2 "Proverbs 29:2 - When the Righteous Rule, the People Rejoice")
* [Deuteronomy 17:18-20](/deuteronomy/17-18-20 "Deuteronomy 17:18-20 - Instructions for the King")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1-7 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Ecclesiastes 10:17 speaks of ancient kings and princes, its timeless wisdom offers profound insights applicable to all forms of leadership—from national governance to the smallest family unit—and indeed, to every individual's personal life. It challenges us to deeply consider the far-reaching impact of our character, our commitment to self-control, and the intentionality behind our purpose-driven living. For leaders in any sphere—be it government, business, the church, or within the family—the verse serves as a powerful and sobering reminder that personal discipline and integrity are not mere private virtues to be cultivated in isolation, but public necessities that directly influence the collective good. A leader's daily habits, particularly their approach to fundamental needs like eating and drinking, often serve as a clear barometer of their broader commitment to their responsibilities and their people. Are we consuming for strength, seeking to be better equipped for service, productivity, and spiritual vitality, or are we prone to "drunkenness"—a metaphor for excess, escapism, or undisciplined indulgence—that ultimately leads to dullness, distraction, and the tragic neglect of duty? This principle extends beyond physical consumption to how we manage our time, steward our financial resources, engage with information, and even cultivate our inner thoughts. A truly blessed life, whether experienced individually or communally, is built upon intentionality, moderation, and a clear, God-honoring sense of purpose, ensuring that our actions consistently contribute to our holistic well-being and the flourishing of those around us, rather than undermining it through undisciplined excess.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life, both personal and professional, do I exercise leadership, and how do my personal habits and disciplines reflect on my ability to lead effectively and with integrity?**
* **Am I truly "eating for strength" in all aspects of my life—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—or am I prone to "drunkenness" (excess, escapism, or undisciplined indulgence) that hinders my purpose and effectiveness?**
* **How might I intentionally cultivate greater self-control, moderation, and purposefulness in my daily routines and choices to better serve my responsibilities and contribute to the "blessing" of my sphere of influence, reflecting the wisdom of this verse?**

### FAQ
**What does "son of nobles" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "son of nobles" (Hebrew: _ben-chorim_) refers to more than simply being born into an aristocratic or privileged family. While noble birth is certainly implied, the deeper and more critical meaning encompasses the inherent qualities and exemplary character expected of such a lineage. It speaks of a king who has been raised with discipline, wisdom, and a profound sense of responsibility, embodying maturity, integrity, and the virtues traditionally associated with true nobility. This ideal stands in stark contrast to a "childish" ruler, who lacks foresight, self-control, and the fundamental capacity for wise and effective governance, as implied in [Ecclesiastes 10:16](/ecclesiastes/10-16 "Ecclesiastes 10:16 - The Woes of a Childish King"). Therefore, "son of nobles" is ultimately about character and cultivated virtue as much as, if not more than, mere hereditary lineage.

**Why is the eating habit of princes so important to the well-being of the land?**

Answer: The eating habits of the princes are presented as a powerful microcosm and symbolic representation of their overall character, discipline, and fitness for leadership. Eating "in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness" symbolizes a life governed by moderation, purpose, and self-control. Leaders who demonstrate discipline in their personal habits, particularly in areas of basic human need, are far more likely to be disciplined, focused, and responsible in their public duties and decision-making. Conversely, those who succumb to excessive indulgence and drunkenness reveal a profound lack of self-control and judgment, which inevitably spills over into poor governance, neglect of responsibilities, and ultimately, the moral and societal decay of the nation. The Preacher highlights that the moral fiber and personal integrity of the leadership directly and profoundly impact the stability, prosperity, and spiritual health of the entire society, a principle powerfully echoed in [Proverbs 28:12](/proverbs/28-12 "Proverbs 28:12 - When the Righteous Triumph, There is Great Glory").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 10:17, with its profound call for noble, disciplined, and purposeful leadership, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and reign of Jesus Christ. He is the true "son of nobles," not merely by virtue of His human lineage as the rightful heir to the throne of David ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")), but preeminently by His divine nature and perfectly righteous character. Unlike any earthly king or prince who has ever succumbed to folly, indulgence, or the corrupting influence of power, Christ perfectly embodied self-control, divine wisdom, and an unwavering, singular dedication to His Father's will and His redemptive mission. He truly "ate for strength," not for drunkenness, as His entire life was consumed with doing the will of the One who sent Him, declaring, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work" ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will")). He is the King who never abused His supreme power, never succumbed to earthly temptations, and always acted for the ultimate good and eternal blessing of His "land"—His people, the Church, and indeed, all creation. Through His perfect life of obedience, His sacrificial death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection, He established an eternal kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy, bringing true and lasting blessing to all who humbly submit to His noble and just rule ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign")). As believers, we are called to emulate our perfectly noble King, living lives of self-control, purpose, and integrity, empowered by His indwelling Spirit, so that we too may bring blessing to our spheres of influence, reflecting the character and values of our glorious King ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 31:4

[It is] not for kings, O Lemuel, [it is] not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:

Proverbs 31:5

Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

Jeremiah 30:21

And their nobles shall be of themselves, and their governor shall proceed from the midst of them; and I will cause him to draw near, and he shall approach unto me: for who [is] this that engaged his heart to approach unto me? saith the LORD.

Deuteronomy 14:26

And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,

Proverbs 28:2

¶ For the transgression of a land many [are] the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding [and] knowledge the state [thereof] shall be prolonged.

Proverbs 28:3

¶ A poor man that oppresseth the poor [is like] a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

Isaiah 5:11

Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, [that] they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, [till] wine inflame them!