Proverbs 23:6

ΒΆ Eat thou not the bread of [him that hath] an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

Eat {H3898} thou not the bread {H3899} of him that hath an evil {H7451} eye {H5869}, neither desire {H183} thou his dainty meats {H4303}:

Don't eat the food of a stingy man; don't be greedy for his delicacies.

Do not eat the bread of a stingy man, and do not crave his delicacies;

Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, Neither desire thou his dainties:

Commentary

Proverbs 23:6 offers a profound warning within the broader context of biblical wisdom concerning discernment and relationships. It cautions against accepting hospitality from someone whose motives are impure or whose generosity is begrudging.

Context of Proverbs 23:6

This verse is part of a section in the book of Proverbs (chapters 22-24) often referred to as "Sayings of the Wise." These proverbs provide practical guidance for living a righteous and prudent life. The immediate context of Proverbs 23:1-8 specifically addresses the etiquette and dangers of dining with influential people, particularly those who might have ulterior motives or a deceptive nature. The wisdom here extends beyond literal meals to any form of "gift" or favor from such individuals.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Discerning Motives: The primary message is to look beyond outward appearances. Someone may offer food or favors, but their underlying attitude or intention can be harmful. True wisdom involves understanding the heart of the giver, not just the gift itself.
  • Avoiding Entanglement: Accepting hospitality, especially in ancient cultures, often implied a level of obligation or indebtedness. The verse warns that accepting from a person with an "evil eye" can trap you in a relationship built on insincerity, leading to regret or compromise.
  • The Nature of True Generosity: By contrast, this proverb implicitly highlights the importance of genuine, cheerful giving, free from grudges or ulterior motives. It underscores that the spirit of the giver is as important as the gift.

Linguistic Insights: The "Evil Eye"

The phrase "evil eye" (Hebrew: ayin ra'ah - Χ’Χ™ΧŸ Χ¨Χ’Χ”) in this context does not refer to a magical curse or malevolent gaze in the superstitious sense. Instead, it describes a person who is miserly, grudging, envious, or stingy, even when they appear to be generous. Such an individual may offer food or hospitality, but they do so with resentment, a desire for something in return, or an underlying ill will. Their apparent generosity is a facade, and their heart is not truly open. This concept is further illuminated by the very next verse, Proverbs 23:7, which states, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he."

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:6 remains highly relevant today. It teaches us to be cautious and discerning in our relationships and dealings:

  • Evaluate the Giver, Not Just the Gift: Before accepting favors, financial assistance, or even seemingly kind gestures, consider the character and motives of the person offering. Is their generosity genuine, or does it come with hidden strings, resentment, or a desire to manipulate?
  • Guard Against Obligation: Be wary of situations that could lead to unhealthy obligations or compromise your integrity. Accepting from a grudging giver can make you feel indebted in ways that are not good for your conscience or relationships.
  • Cultivate Sincere Relationships: This proverb encourages us to seek out and build relationships based on transparency, genuine care, and sincere generosity, rather than superficial appearances or manipulative gestures. Just as we should avoid those with an "evil eye," we should strive to be givers with a cheerful and open heart.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

Cross-References

  • Psalms 141:4

    Incline not my heart to [any] evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.

  • Proverbs 23:3

    Be not desirous of his dainties: for they [are] deceitful meat.

  • Daniel 1:8

    ΒΆ But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

  • Daniel 1:10

    And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which [are] of your sort? then shall ye make [me] endanger my head to the king.

  • Deuteronomy 15:9

    Beware that there be not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the LORD against thee, and it be sin unto thee.

  • Proverbs 28:22

    ΒΆ He that hasteth to be rich [hath] an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

  • Deuteronomy 28:56

    The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of her bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter,
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