Proverbs 23:32

KJV

At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

KJV (with Strong's)

At the last {H319} it biteth {H5391} like a serpent {H5175}, and stingeth {H6567} like an adder {H6848}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but in the end, it bites like a serpent -yes, it strikes like a poisonous snake.

Berean Standard Bible

In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper.

American Standard Version

At the last it biteth like a serpent, And stingeth like an adder.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:32 serves as a stark and potent warning against the insidious and ultimately destructive nature of unchecked indulgence, particularly in strong drink. It vividly portrays the delayed but devastating consequences of a path that initially appears appealing or harmless, revealing that what promises pleasure eventually delivers profound pain and ruin, akin to the venomous strike of a deadly serpent or adder. This verse culminates a broader admonition against drunkenness, emphasizing that the true character of folly is revealed only "at the last," when its full, bitter fruit is borne.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic warning within a larger section of Proverbs (specifically [Proverbs 23:29-35](/proverbs/23 "Proverbs 23:29-35 - Warning Against Drunkenness")) that graphically details the woes and dangers of drunkenness. The preceding verses paint a picture of immediate symptoms: "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes?" ([Proverbs 23:29](/proverbs/23-29 "Proverbs 23:29 - The Woes of Drunkenness")). The passage then describes the deceptive allure of wine, which "sparkles in the cup" and "goes down smoothly" ([Proverbs 23:31](/proverbs/23-31 "Proverbs 23:31 - The Deceptive Allure of Wine")), before revealing its true, destructive nature. Verse 32 shifts from these immediate, visible effects to the more profound, long-term, and often hidden consequences, employing powerful animal metaphors to underscore the severity and inevitability of the ultimate outcome. The subsequent verses describe the distorted perceptions and lack of self-awareness that accompany deep intoxication, culminating in a tragic cycle of repentance and relapse ([Proverbs 23:33-35](/proverbs/23-33 "Proverbs 23:33-35 - The Drunkard's Delusion and Cycle")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wine was a common beverage, often diluted with water, and held a dual status: it could be a blessing, bringing joy and refreshment ([Psalm 104:15](/psalm/104-15 "Psalm 104:15 - Wine that Gladdens the Heart")), but also a source of great peril when abused. Drunkenness was widely condemned as a sign of folly, lack of self-control, and a pathway to sin and disgrace. The wisdom literature, including Proverbs, frequently contrasts the disciplined, sober life with the chaotic, destructive path of the drunkard. Banquets and feasts were common, and the temptation to overindulge was ever-present. The imagery of serpents and adders would have been immediately understood by an ancient audience, as these venomous creatures were a real and constant threat in the Near Eastern landscape, their bites often fatal and agonizing. This cultural familiarity makes the metaphor particularly impactful, drawing on a shared understanding of sudden, painful, and deadly danger.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb powerfully articulates the **deceptive nature of sin and folly**. It highlights how destructive behaviors, especially addictive ones, often present themselves with an initial appeal or promise of pleasure, masking their true, harmful character. The "sparkling" wine ([Proverbs 23:31](/proverbs/23-31 "Proverbs 23:31 - The Deceptive Allure of Wine")) lures one in, but its true "bite" is delayed, making the danger insidious. Another central theme is the **inevitability and severity of consequences**. The proverb asserts that the "last" outcome of such indulgence is not merely unpleasant but profoundly painful and destructive, akin to a venomous attack. This underscores the biblical principle that actions have consequences, and while God's grace abounds, there are natural laws of sowing and reaping that cannot be circumvented ([Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")). Finally, the verse serves as a crucial call to **wisdom and foresight**. It contrasts the momentary gratification of indulgence with the lasting peace and well-being that come from choosing discipline and self-control. True wisdom, as emphasized throughout Proverbs, involves understanding the ultimate end of a path before embarking on it, urging the reader to consider the long-term implications of their choices rather than being swayed by immediate desires ([Proverbs 4:7](/proverbs/4-7 "Proverbs 4:7 - Wisdom is the Principal Thing")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Last (Hebrew, _ʼachărîyth'_):** From the root meaning "after" or "behind," this word signifies the "end," "outcome," "future," or "posterity." In Proverbs 23:32, it emphasizes the delayed but inevitable nature of the consequences. The "bite" does not come immediately with the first sip but "at the last," after the indulgence has taken hold and its destructive power has matured. It points to the ultimate, final result, often implying a negative or undesirable end when applied to folly.
* **Biteth (Hebrew, _nâshak'_):** A primitive root meaning "to strike with a sting (as a serpent)." While it can also refer to oppressing with interest on a loan, in this context, it directly describes the action of a venomous creature. It conveys a sudden, piercing, and painful attack, implying the injection of a harmful substance. This word vividly portrays the sharp, unexpected, and damaging impact of unchecked indulgence.
* **Serpent (Hebrew, _nâchâsh'_):** This is a general term for a snake, derived from its characteristic hiss. In biblical literature, the serpent is frequently associated with deception, temptation, and danger, most notably in the narrative of the Fall ([Genesis 3:1](/genesis/3-1 "Genesis 3:1 - The Serpent's Deception")). Its use here evokes a creature that is often hidden, subtle in its approach, and deadly in its strike, mirroring the insidious nature of destructive habits.
* **Stingeth (Hebrew, _pârâsh'_):** From a root meaning "to separate," "to disperse," or "to specify," this word can also imply "to wound" or "to inject." In the context of a venomous creature, it refers to the act of injecting venom, a sharp, penetrating action. The pairing with "biteth" intensifies the imagery of a painful, debilitating, and potentially fatal attack, highlighting the comprehensive and severe harm inflicted.
* **Adder (Hebrew, _tsephaʻ'_):** From an unused root suggesting "to extrude," this term refers to a viper or a highly venomous snake, possibly a cobra or a horned viper, known for its swift, often unprovoked, and deadly strike. The "adder" is a more specific and dangerous type of snake than the general "serpent," intensifying the warning. Its inclusion underscores the lethal and insidious threat that delivers its poison after a period of lurking or deception.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"At the last":** This phrase sets the temporal context, emphasizing that the full, devastating consequences of indulgence are not immediate but manifest over time. What might initially seem harmless or even pleasurable eventually reveals its true, destructive nature. It highlights the insidious progression of sin and addiction, where the "payoff" of pleasure is fleeting, but the "cost" of ruin is enduring and revealed at the end of the path.
* **"it biteth like a serpent":** This clause introduces the first powerful simile. The "it" refers to the wine or strong drink, or more broadly, the unchecked indulgence. The comparison to a "serpent" suggests a hidden, deceptive, and dangerous enemy. The "bite" signifies a sudden, painful, and penetrating attack, implying the injection of a harmful, perhaps even fatal, substance. This imagery conveys the idea that what was once alluring becomes a source of deep pain and spiritual, emotional, or physical poisoning.
* **"and stingeth like an adder":** This second clause intensifies the warning with another simile. The "adder" is a more specific and often more venomous type of snake than a general serpent, known for its swift, unexpected, and deadly strike. The word "stingeth" (from a root implying to "wound" or "inject") reinforces the idea of a sharp, piercing, and debilitating injection of venom. The pairing of these two images underscores the dual nature of the danger: subtle and deceptive like a serpent, yet ultimately swift, potent, and lethal like an adder.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:32 is rich in literary devices, primarily employing **Simile** to convey its powerful warning. The phrases "biteth like a serpent" and "stingeth like an adder" directly compare the destructive outcome of indulgence to the venomous attacks of these dangerous creatures, making the abstract concept of consequence tangible and terrifying. This vivid **Imagery** evokes a strong sensory and emotional response, allowing the reader to visualize the sudden pain, the insidious nature of the venom, and the potentially fatal outcome. There is also an element of **Personification**, as the indulgence itself is given the active, malevolent qualities of biting and stinging, almost as if it were a living entity lying in wait. The proverb's structure also implies **Foreshadowing**, as it warns of a future, inevitable consequence, urging the reader to consider the end from the beginning. The use of two distinct but related venomous creatures (serpent and adder) also serves as a form of **Intensification**, emphasizing the severity and multifaceted nature of the danger.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply resonates with broader biblical theology concerning the nature of sin, its deceptive allure, and its ultimate, destructive wages. It illustrates how sin, much like the "sparkling" wine, often presents itself as desirable and harmless, promising pleasure or escape, but its true character is revealed "at the last." This delayed but certain consequence aligns with the biblical teaching that sin, though it may offer temporary gratification, inevitably leads to death and separation from God. The imagery of a venomous bite speaks to the spiritual, emotional, and physical "poison" that unchecked sin injects into a person's life, corrupting and destroying from within. It underscores the importance of self-control, discernment, and choosing the path of wisdom, which leads to life, over the path of folly, which leads to ruin.

* [Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin")
* [James 1:14](/james/1-14 "James 1:14 - Desire Leading to Sin")
* [James 1:15](/james/1-15 "James 1:15 - Desire Leading to Death")
* [Galatians 5:21](/galatians/5-21 "Galatians 5:21 - Works of the Flesh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:32 offers a timeless and universal principle that extends far beyond the specific context of alcohol abuse, serving as a profound warning against any habit, addiction, or unchecked desire that promises immediate gratification but delivers lasting harm. It compels us to cultivate foresight, urging us not to be swayed by the superficial allure of a choice without carefully considering its long-term repercussions. Many destructive paths begin subtly and innocently, revealing their true, corrosive nature only after they have fully ensnared their victim. This proverb calls us to recognize the insidious nature of sin, which often disguises itself as harmless or even beneficial before its "bite" is felt. It is a powerful call to cultivate self-control and discipline, to guard our hearts and minds against influences that enslave rather than liberate, and to seek discernment in all areas of life. True wisdom involves understanding the end from the beginning, choosing paths that lead to life, health, and spiritual well-being, rather than destruction and regret.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "sparkles in the cup" for you today—what desires or habits promise temporary pleasure but might have hidden, long-term destructive consequences?**
* **How can you cultivate greater foresight and discernment in your daily decisions, considering the "at the last" outcome rather than just immediate gratification?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be underestimating the "bite" or "sting" of seemingly harmless indulgences or compromises?**
* **What practical steps can you take to strengthen your self-control and resist the deceptive allure of sin in your life?**

### FAQ
**Why does the proverb use serpent and adder imagery?**

Answer: The imagery of the serpent and adder is used for its powerful symbolic meaning and immediate cultural resonance. Both creatures are known for their hidden nature, sudden and unexpected strikes, and the injection of potent venom that causes intense pain, suffering, and often death. This vivid comparison effectively conveys the insidious, deceptive, and ultimately devastating consequences of unchecked indulgence. Just as a snake's bite is not immediately fatal but its venom slowly takes effect, so too does the "poison" of destructive habits work over time, revealing its full, painful impact "at the last." It underscores the idea that what seems appealing initially holds a hidden, lethal danger.

**Is this proverb only about alcohol?**

Answer: While Proverbs 23:32 is found within a passage specifically warning against drunkenness, its principle is broadly applicable to any form of unchecked indulgence or sin that promises temporary pleasure but delivers lasting harm. The wisdom literature often uses specific examples to illustrate universal truths. Therefore, this proverb serves as a timeless caution against any addictive behavior, harmful relationship, or spiritual compromise that, like the "sparkling wine" ([Proverbs 23:31](/proverbs/23-31 "Proverbs 23:31 - The Deceptive Allure of Wine")), initially appears attractive but ultimately "bites" and "stings" with destructive consequences, whether physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual.

**How does this proverb relate to modern addictions?**

Answer: This proverb is remarkably relevant to modern addictions, whether to substances, technology, pornography, gambling, or any compulsive behavior. All addictions share the common characteristic of offering an initial, often intense, pleasure or escape, much like the "sparkling" wine. However, "at the last," they deliver devastating consequences: broken relationships, financial ruin, health problems, spiritual emptiness, and profound regret. The "bite of a serpent" and "sting of an adder" powerfully illustrate the insidious way addictions take hold, slowly injecting their "venom" into a person's life until they become enslaved and suffer severe, often life-threatening, harm. The proverb serves as a timeless warning to recognize the deceptive allure and inevitable destructive end of such paths.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:32, with its stark warning against the venomous "bite" of unchecked sin, finds its ultimate fulfillment and solution in Jesus Christ. Humanity, in its fallen state, is inherently susceptible to the deceptive allure of sin, which promises freedom and pleasure but ultimately enslaves and brings death, much like the serpent's original deception in [Genesis 3:1](/genesis/3-1 "Genesis 3:1 - The Serpent's Deception"). The "bite" of sin, as described in this proverb, is the spiritual death and alienation from God that results from our rebellion, a reality powerfully articulated by Paul in [Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin"). However, Christ came to reverse this curse. He became sin for us, taking the full "sting" of sin and death upon Himself on the cross ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Through His sacrifice, He disarmed the spiritual powers that held humanity captive ([Colossians 2:13-15](/colossians/2-13 "Colossians 2:13-15 - Christ's Victory Over Sin and Powers")), delivering us from the dominion of sin's "venom" ([Romans 6:14](/romans/6-14 "Romans 6:14 - Sin Shall Not Have Dominion Over You")). In Christ, we are offered true freedom from the enslavement of destructive habits and desires ([John 8:34-36](/john/8-34 "John 8:34-36 - Freedom from Sin")), receiving the Holy Spirit who empowers us to walk in wisdom and self-control, choosing life over the path that leads to the serpent's bite. He is the ultimate antidote to sin's poison, offering eternal life and true liberation where sin once promised only death.

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

Exodus 7:5

And the Egyptians shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them.

Exodus 7:6

And Moses and Aaron did as the LORD commanded them, so did they.

Proverbs 5:11

And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,

Ecclesiastes 10:8

He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.

Jeremiah 5:31

The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love [to have it] so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?

Isaiah 28:7

But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble [in] judgment.

Isaiah 28:8

For all tables are full of vomit [and] filthiness, [so that there is] no place [clean].