Proverbs 23:1

KJV

¶ When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what [is] before thee:

KJV (with Strong's)

When thou sittest {H3427} to eat {H3898} with a ruler {H4910}, consider {H995} diligently {H995} what is before {H6440} thee:

Complete Jewish Bible

When you sit down to dine with a ruler, think carefully about who is before you.

Berean Standard Bible

When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is set before you,

American Standard Version

When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, Consider diligently him that is before thee;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:1 offers a critical piece of wisdom regarding interactions with those in authority, specifically in the context of a shared meal. It admonishes the individual to exercise profound discernment and careful consideration when dining with a ruler, suggesting that such an occasion is not merely about physical sustenance but carries significant social, ethical, and spiritual implications. The verse serves as a foundational warning to be acutely aware of one's surroundings, the host's potential intentions, and the broader dynamics at play, emphasizing the necessity of prudence and self-control in high-stakes environments.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of a larger collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, specifically within a section often attributed to "the words of the wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34). It immediately precedes a series of warnings about gluttony and the dangers of associating with those who are intemperate or deceitful (Proverbs 23:2-8). The command to "consider diligently" in verse 1 sets the stage for the subsequent exhortations to self-control and discernment, particularly regarding appetite and material desires, when in the presence of powerful individuals. It is a practical instruction designed to prevent social missteps and moral compromise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, communal meals, especially those involving rulers or high-ranking officials, were deeply significant social and political events. They were not casual affairs but often served as opportunities for negotiation, alliances, or the display of power and status. Invitations to such tables were a privilege, but also a potential minefield. The host's generosity could be a test, a trap, or an expectation of reciprocity. Furthermore, the concept of "ruler" (מָשַׁל, _mâshal_) encompassed not just kings but any person in a position of authority or influence, whose favor or displeasure could profoundly impact one's life. Prudence was paramount, as a single misstep in etiquette, speech, or consumption could lead to severe consequences, including loss of favor, reputation, or even life.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 23:1 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs. Foremost is the theme of **Discernment and Prudence**, central to the entire wisdom tradition. The command to "consider diligently" underscores the need for deep insight and foresight in all of life's interactions, especially those with powerful figures. This aligns with the broader call to seek wisdom as the "principal thing" found in [Proverbs 4:7](/proverbs/4-7 "Proverbs 4:7 - Wisdom is the Principal Thing"). It also introduces the theme of **Self-Control**, particularly in the face of temptation, which is further developed in subsequent verses concerning appetite and desire (e.g., [Proverbs 23:2-3](/proverbs/23-2 "Proverbs 23:2-3 - Restrain Your Appetite")). Implicitly, the verse touches on **Respect for Authority** and the **Awareness of Hidden Motives**, reminding the reader that appearances can be deceiving, and one must be vigilant against manipulation or undue influence, especially when dealing with those who hold power, as seen in the caution against the "deceitful food" in [Proverbs 23:3](/proverbs/23-3 "Proverbs 23:3 - Do Not Crave His Delicacies").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sittest (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, a primitive root meaning "to sit down," "to dwell," or "to remain." In this context, it signifies the act of taking one's place at the table, implying a state of being present and engaged in the social setting. It's not a casual passing by, but an intentional act of joining a specific, often formal, gathering. The choice to "sit" implies a commitment to the interaction.
* **ruler (Hebrew, _mâshal'_):** From H4910, a primitive root meaning "to rule," "to have dominion," or "to govern." This word identifies the host as someone holding significant power, authority, or influence. The presence of a "ruler" immediately elevates the stakes of the encounter, demanding a higher degree of circumspection and strategic thinking than a meal with an equal or subordinate.
* **consider diligently (Hebrew, _bîyn'_):** From H995, a primitive root meaning "to separate mentally (or distinguish)," and by implication, "to understand," "discern," or "perceive." The doubling of the root (often translated as "diligently" or "well") emphasizes the intensity and thoroughness of the required consideration. It's not a superficial glance but a command for deep, insightful, and intelligent assessment of the entire situation—the food, the host's intentions, the social dynamics, and potential implications. It calls for acute awareness and critical thinking.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When thou sittest to eat with a ruler,"**: This clause establishes the specific social context and the primary actors. It describes a scenario of elevated social interaction—a meal with someone in a position of power. The act of "sitting to eat" implies an invitation and participation in a formal or semi-formal setting, immediately signaling that this is not a casual encounter but one requiring careful conduct.
* **"consider diligently"**: This is the core command of the verse. The Hebrew verb implies a deep, thorough, and intelligent discernment. It's an imperative to be exceptionally thoughtful, to analyze the situation from multiple angles, and to understand not just the surface-level appearances but the underlying motives and potential consequences. This consideration extends beyond mere politeness to profound situational awareness.
* **"what [is] before thee:"**: This phrase, while seemingly referring to the food, functions as a **metonymy** for the entire situation. It encompasses not only the literal meal (its quality, quantity, and potential for gluttony, as expanded in subsequent verses) but also the intangible elements: the ruler's character, their intentions, the social dynamics, the unspoken expectations, and the potential for temptation or manipulation. It's a call to be aware of the full scope of the encounter.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:1 primarily functions as an **Admonition**, a direct command or warning given by a wise teacher to a disciple. The imperative "consider diligently" is a clear example of this didactic style, characteristic of wisdom literature. The verse also employs **Metonymy** in the phrase "what is before thee." While literally referring to the food on the table, it stands in for the entire complex situation, including the host's character, intentions, and the broader social and political implications of dining with a ruler. This expands the scope of the warning beyond mere dietary caution to a comprehensive call for situational awareness and prudence. Furthermore, the verse sets a **Proverbial Tone**, offering concise, practical advice that is universally applicable, even if the specific context (dining with a ruler) is ancient. It uses a specific scenario to teach a general principle of discernment and self-control.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The wisdom of Proverbs 23:1 resonates deeply with broader biblical themes concerning prudence, self-control, and the discerning heart. It teaches that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but the practical application of discernment in real-life situations, especially those involving power dynamics and potential temptation. The "consider diligently" command aligns with the biblical emphasis on walking circumspectly, being wise as serpents and innocent as doves, and exercising spiritual discernment in all of life's encounters. It underscores the importance of guarding one's heart and actions, recognizing that external circumstances often test internal character. The verse implicitly warns against naive trust and encourages a posture of thoughtful vigilance, recognizing that not all hospitality is benign and that even seemingly beneficial opportunities can carry hidden dangers.

* [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart")
* [Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Matthew 10:16 - Be Shrewd as Snakes and Innocent as Doves")
* [Ephesians 5:15-16](/ephesians/5-15 "Ephesians 5:15-16 - Walk Circumspectly")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:1 offers timeless wisdom that transcends its ancient context, providing profound guidance for navigating any significant social or professional encounter in contemporary life. Whether it's a job interview, a business negotiation, a formal dinner, a meeting with a superior, or even a sensitive family gathering, the principle remains: approach it with careful, diligent consideration. This involves not only being mindful of one's own conduct, speech, and even appetite, but also discerning the true nature of the situation, the intentions of others, and the potential implications of one's words and actions. It calls us to cultivate a heightened sense of situational awareness and self-mastery, ensuring that we act with wisdom, integrity, and foresight, rather than being driven by impulse, greed, or naivety. In a world full of complex interactions and hidden agendas, this proverb serves as a vital reminder to be discerning and prudent in all our dealings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what current or upcoming situations in your life might the principle of "considering diligently what is before you" be particularly relevant?**
* **How can you cultivate a greater sense of discernment and self-control in your interactions, especially when dealing with people in positions of influence or power?**
* **What are some "hidden motives" or unspoken expectations you might need to discern in your social or professional engagements?**
* **How does this proverb encourage you to think about your own integrity and reputation when interacting in high-stakes environments?**

### FAQ

**What does "consider diligently" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Consider diligently" (Hebrew: _bîyn bîyn_) means to understand, discern, or perceive with deep insight and thoroughness. It's not a superficial glance but a command to apply profound thought, intelligence, and foresight to the entire situation. This includes assessing the ruler's character, their potential motives, the social dynamics at play, and the long-term implications of your words and actions. It's a call to be acutely aware and strategically thoughtful, recognizing that what appears on the surface may not be the whole truth, especially when dealing with those in positions of influence.

**Is this verse only about avoiding gluttony?**

Answer: While subsequent verses in [Proverbs 23](/proverbs/23 "Proverbs 23 - Warnings Against Gluttony and Deceit") do elaborate on the dangers of gluttony and excessive appetite (e.g., [Proverbs 23:2-3](/proverbs/23-2 "Proverbs 23:2-3 - Put a Knife to Your Throat")), Proverbs 23:1 sets a broader principle. "What is before thee" refers not just to the food but to the entire situation, including the host's intentions, the social dynamics, and the potential for temptation or misstep beyond just eating. It's about overall prudence, discernment, and self-control in a high-stakes environment, encompassing one's speech, actions, and even one's heart, as much as one's appetite.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:1, with its call for discernment and prudence when interacting with authority, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While Jesus never "sits to eat with a ruler" in the sense of seeking their favor or being tested by their hospitality, He consistently demonstrated profound wisdom, discernment, and self-control in His encounters with the religious and political authorities of His day. He perfectly "considered diligently what was before Him" when facing the Pharisees' traps ([Matthew 22:15-22](/matthew/22-15 "Matthew 22:15-22 - Paying Taxes to Caesar")), Herod's cunning ([Luke 13:31-33](/luke/13-31 "Luke 13:31-33 - Jesus Warns Herod")), and Pilate's interrogation ([John 18:33-38](/john/18-33 "John 18:33-38 - Jesus Before Pilate")). Jesus never succumbed to the temptations of power, wealth, or worldly recognition, even when offered all the kingdoms of the world ([Matthew 4:8-10](/matthew/4-8 "Matthew 4:8-10 - The Temptation of Jesus")). His life exemplifies the perfect embodiment of wisdom, demonstrating how to navigate complex human interactions with divine insight, humility, and unwavering commitment to God's will, ultimately leading to His sacrificial meal, the Last Supper, which inaugurated the new covenant ([Luke 22:19-20](/luke/22-19 "Luke 22:19-20 - The Last Supper")). Through Christ, we learn not only to be prudent in human affairs but to fix our gaze on the ultimate Ruler, God Himself, and to seek His wisdom in every encounter.

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

Jude 1:12

These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds [they are] without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;

Genesis 43:32

And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that [is] an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Genesis 43:34

And he took [and sent] messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.