Proverbs 23:20

Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

Be not among winebibbers {H3196}{H5433}; among riotous eaters {H2151} of flesh {H1320}:

Don't be one of those who guzzle wine or of those who eat meat to excess,

Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat.

Be not among winebibbers, Among gluttonous eaters of flesh:

Proverbs 23:20 offers a succinct warning against destructive personal habits and the company that promotes them. As part of King Solomon's collection of wisdom sayings, this verse serves as practical advice for living a disciplined and prudent life, steering clear of paths that lead to ruin.

Context

This proverb is situated within a broader section of wisdom literature that emphasizes the importance of making wise choices regarding associations, wealth, and self-control. It directly follows warnings against coveting the dainties of rulers (Proverbs 23:6) and precedes a clear statement about the poverty that results from gluttony and drunkenness (Proverbs 23:21). The book of Proverbs frequently highlights the connection between one's character, company, and ultimate destiny.

Key Themes

  • The Danger of Bad Company: The primary injunction, "Be not among," emphasizes the profound influence our associations have on our character and choices. Surrounding oneself with those given to excess can lead to adopting their destructive habits. As the apostle Paul later affirmed, "Evil communications corrupt good manners."
  • Self-Control and Temperance: The verse directly warns against "winebibbers" (habitual drunkards) and "riotous eaters of flesh" (those given to gluttony and extravagant feasting). These are vices rooted in a lack of self-control, leading to physical, financial, and spiritual decay. Biblical wisdom consistently promotes moderation and discipline.
  • Prudence and Stewardship: Implied in the warning is the understanding that such indulgent lifestyles often lead to financial ruin and a squandering of resources. Wisdom dictates prudent management of one's body, time, and possessions.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Winebibbers" (KJV): The Hebrew term is sōḇĕ'î yāyin (סֹבְאֵי יָיִן), which literally means "those who habitually drink wine" or "drunkards." It refers to a persistent pattern of excessive drinking, not just occasional consumption.
  • "Riotous eaters of flesh": The Hebrew phrase is zōlĕlē bāśār (זוֹלְלֵי בָשָׂר). The word zōlēl (זוֹלֵל) carries connotations of being wasteful, gluttonous, profligate, or squandering. It points to an uncontrolled, extravagant, and often destructive consumption of food, particularly meat, which was a luxury in ancient times. It's not just eating meat, but eating it in a "riotous" or wasteful manner.

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:20 remains profoundly relevant today. It's a timeless reminder that:

  • Our associations matter: Choose friends and companions wisely, as their habits and values will inevitably influence your own. Seek out those who encourage good works and spiritual growth.
  • Discipline is essential: The warning extends beyond literal food and drink to any form of excessive indulgence or addiction that can consume one's life. This includes overspending, excessive entertainment, or any habit that leads to a lack of control and negative consequences.
  • Moderation is key: Living a life of wisdom involves cultivating self-control and moderation in all areas. This timeless wisdom encourages believers to cultivate self-control and moderation, which are aspects of the fruit of the Spirit, leading to a life of greater freedom and purpose.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 21:34

    And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and [so] that day come upon you unawares.

  • Ephesians 5:18

    And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

  • Romans 13:13

    Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

  • Isaiah 5:22

    Woe unto [them that are] mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink:

  • Matthew 24:49

    And shall begin to smite [his] fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;

  • Luke 16:19

    There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

  • Luke 15:13

    And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

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