Proverbs 23:2

And put a knife to thy throat, if thou [be] a man given to appetite.

And put {H7760} a knife {H7915} to thy throat {H3930}, if thou be a man given {H1167} to appetite {H5315}.

If you have a big appetite, put a knife to your throat!

and put a knife to your throat if you possess a great appetite.

And put a knife to thy throat, If thou be a man given to appetite.

Commentary

Proverbs 23:2 delivers a striking and hyperbolic warning about the dangers of uncontrolled appetite, particularly when dining with a ruler or person of influence. The verse urges extreme self-restraint, metaphorically suggesting one should be prepared to severely curb their desires rather than succumb to gluttony or improper conduct in such a setting.

Context

This proverb is part of a series of warnings (Proverbs 23:1-8) concerning table manners and appropriate behavior when invited to dine with a dignitary or leader. The preceding verse, Proverbs 23:1, advises to "consider diligently what is before thee." This sets the stage for the strong caution in verse 2, highlighting that the occasion is not merely about food but about respect, discernment, and self-discipline. The lavishness of the host's table could easily tempt one to overindulge, leading to shame or a misrepresentation of one's character.

Key Themes

  • Self-Control: The primary message is the absolute necessity of discipline over one's physical desires. It's a call to master one's appetites rather than be mastered by them.
  • Gluttony: While not exclusively about food, the context strongly points to the sin of gluttony โ€“ excessive eating and drinking. The proverb warns against allowing physical hunger to overshadow wisdom or decorum.
  • Prudence in Social Settings: It teaches the importance of conducting oneself with wisdom and discretion, especially in the presence of authority or important individuals. One's behavior at the table can reflect deeply on their character and judgment.
  • Avoiding Shame and Consequences: The implied consequence of unrestrained appetite is shame, disgrace, or potentially losing favor, underscoring the practical wisdom of self-restraint.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "put a knife to thy throat" is a powerful Hebrew idiom, a vivid hyperbole. It is not an instruction for literal self-harm, but a dramatic call for extreme vigilance and severe discipline. It means, "exercise the utmost self-control" or "be as careful as if your life depended on it." The word "appetite" comes from the Hebrew word nephesh (ื ึถืคึถืฉื), which commonly refers to the soul, life, or self, but in this context, it signifies a strong craving or desire, often for food or pleasure. It emphasizes that this desire can be so overwhelming that it requires drastic measures to curb.

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:2 offers timeless wisdom that extends beyond literal dining situations. It serves as a powerful reminder for believers to exercise self-control in all areas of life. Just as one might be tempted by food, we are often tempted by other desiresโ€”for wealth, power, pleasure, recognition, or even idle leisure. The principle remains: allowing uncontrolled desires to dictate our actions can lead to negative consequences, including spiritual and relational harm. This verse encourages us to be mindful of our inclinations and to practice discipline, recognizing that true wisdom involves mastering our inner selves rather than being enslaved by our cravings. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:27, we are to "bring my body into subjection."

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Philippians 3:19

    Whose end [is] destruction, whose God [is their] belly, and [whose] glory [is] in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

  • Matthew 18:8

    Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast [them] from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.

  • Matthew 18:9

    And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:27

    But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
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