Proverbs 23:7

KJV

For as he thinketh in his heart, so [is] he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart [is] not with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

For as he thinketh {H8176} in his heart {H5315}, so is he: Eat {H398} and drink {H8354}, saith {H559} he to thee; but his heart {H3820} is not with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

For he is like someone who keeps accounts -"Eat! Drink!" he says to you, but he doesn't really mean it.

Berean Standard Bible

for he is keeping track, inwardly counting the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you.

American Standard Version

For as he thinketh within himself, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; But his heart is not with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:7 offers a profound dual insight into human character and discernment: first, asserting that a person's true essence is defined by their deepest thoughts and intentions, not merely outward appearance; and second, illustrating this principle through the example of a deceptive host whose superficial generosity masks an insincere or malicious heart. The verse serves as a crucial warning to look beyond mere actions and to discern the genuine disposition of others, while simultaneously challenging the reader to cultivate inner integrity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger section of practical wisdom in the book of Proverbs, specifically within a series of warnings and instructions (Proverbs 22:17-24:34) often referred to as "The Sayings of the Wise." More immediately, Proverbs 23:6-8 directly cautions against accepting hospitality from a "stingy person" or one with an "evil eye" (a common idiom for envy or greed). Verse 7 explains *why* such caution is necessary: the host's outward invitation to "eat and drink" is contradicted by their inner disposition. The preceding verses set the stage for understanding the danger of superficial generosity, and verse 7 provides the foundational principle for discerning such deceit, making it a pivotal explanatory statement within this specific warning.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hospitality was a sacred and deeply ingrained cultural norm in the ancient Near East, often seen as a moral imperative and a sign of honor. To offer food and drink was to extend peace, fellowship, and protection. However, this cultural expectation also presented an opportunity for deception. A host might offer lavish provisions while secretly resenting the cost or harboring ill will. The concept of the "heart" (Hebrew *lêb* or *nephesh*) in ancient Hebrew thought was far more comprehensive than merely the seat of emotions; it encompassed the entire inner being—intellect, will, conscience, and the core of one's personality. Thus, "thinking in the heart" implied a deep, settled conviction or an internal calculation that defined the person's true nature, irrespective of their external presentation.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 23:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes found throughout [the wisdom literature](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs") and the Bible. Primarily, it underscores the **power of the inner life** and the **supremacy of the heart** as the wellspring of one's being, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guarding the Heart"). It highlights the critical distinction between **authenticity and hypocrisy**, warning against those whose outward actions do not align with their inner intentions. This theme of **discernment** is vital, urging the reader to look beyond superficial appearances and understand the true motives of others, a principle that finds its ultimate expression in God's own judgment, as seen in [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **thinketh (Hebrew, _shâʻar'_):** This word (H8176) is a primitive root meaning "to split or open," but figuratively, it means "to estimate" or "to reckon." In this context, it suggests a deep, internal deliberation, a calculation, or a settled conviction rather than a fleeting thought. It implies that what one "thinks in their heart" is not a casual idea but a fundamental, defining principle by which they operate and perceive reality.
* **heart (Hebrew, _nephesh'_):** The first instance of "heart" (H5315) in the verse, "For as he thinketh in his heart," uses *nephesh*. While often translated as "soul" or "life," *nephesh* can also refer to the self, the inner being, or the seat of one's desires and appetites. Here, it emphasizes that the "thinking" is not just intellectual but involves the very essence of one's vitality and personal identity, shaping who they are at their core.
* **heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** The second instance of "heart" (H3820), "but his heart is not with thee," uses *lêb*. This term is widely used for the heart as the center of intellect, will, emotion, and moral character. In this context, it specifically denotes the true disposition, the genuine affection or intention of the individual. The contrast between the outward invitation and the inner *lêb* highlights the hypocrisy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he":** This foundational maxim asserts that a person's true character and identity are fundamentally shaped and determined by their deepest thoughts, intentions, and internal convictions. It posits that outward actions are merely manifestations of an inner reality, emphasizing the profound influence of one's internal world on their very being. The "thinking in his heart" (combining *shâʻar* and *nephesh*) refers to the settled, often subconscious, beliefs and estimations that define one's core self.
* **"Eat and drink, saith he to thee;":** This clause describes the outward expression of hospitality. The host verbally extends an invitation to share a meal, fulfilling the social expectation of generosity. This represents the superficial appearance, the polite gesture that seems to offer fellowship and provision.
* **"but his heart is not with thee.":** This final clause reveals the stark contrast and the deceptive nature of the host. Despite the outward invitation, the host's true inner disposition (*lêb*) is not one of genuine welcome, generosity, or good will. Their heart may be grudging, envious, resentful, or even malicious, demonstrating a profound disconnect between their words and their true intentions.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:7 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound truth. The primary device is **Antithetical Parallelism**, where the first half of the verse ("For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he") states a general principle, and the second half ("Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee") provides a specific, contrasting illustration. This contrast highlights the central theme of authenticity versus deception. **Metonymy** is evident in the use of "heart" (both *nephesh* and *lêb*) to represent the entire inner person—intellect, will, emotions, and moral character—rather than just the physical organ. This emphasizes that the core of one's being is where true identity resides. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in the host's invitation: the words of hospitality are uttered, but their true meaning is subverted by the host's underlying malice or stinginess, creating a deceptive facade.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound truth that our inner thoughts and the condition of our heart define who we are resonates throughout the biblical narrative, from the creation of humanity in God's image to the New Testament's emphasis on inner transformation. This verse underscores God's consistent focus on the heart as the wellspring of life and the true object of His scrutiny, challenging superficial religiosity and demanding genuine internal integrity. It teaches us that true character is not merely about outward conformity but about the alignment of our deepest thoughts and intentions with righteousness.

* [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart"): "For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart."
* [Matthew 15:18-19](/matthew/15-18 "Matthew 15:18-19 - What Comes from the Heart"): "But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies."
* [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guarding the Heart"): "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:7 calls us to a profound level of self-awareness and discernment in our interactions. Firstly, it compels us to honest introspection: Do our outward actions, words, and gestures truly reflect our inner thoughts and intentions? Are we genuine in our hospitality, our service, and our relationships, or do we harbor hidden motives or resentments? Cultivating a pure, sincere, and generous heart is paramount, as it is the wellspring from which all authentic character flows. Secondly, the verse serves as a crucial guide for discerning others. While we are called to love and extend grace, we are also wisely cautioned to look beyond superficial pleasantries and evaluate the true motives of those with whom we engage, especially in matters of trust and fellowship. This does not foster suspicion but encourages spiritual and emotional intelligence, protecting us from exploitation and enabling us to build relationships based on genuine connection rather than deceptive appearances. Finally, recognizing that our thoughts shape our very being, we are challenged to actively cultivate godly thoughts, intentionally filling our minds with truth, purity, and virtue, thereby transforming our inner landscape and, consequently, our outward lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might my outward actions not truly align with my inner thoughts or intentions?**
* **How can I cultivate a more genuine and sincere heart in my relationships and acts of service?**
* **What practices can help me discern the true intentions of others without becoming overly suspicious or cynical?**
* **Considering that "as he thinketh in his heart, so is he," what kind of thoughts am I consistently allowing to shape my inner being?**

### FAQ
**What does "as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" truly mean?**

Answer: This profound statement means that a person's true character, identity, and inner disposition are fundamentally determined by their deepest thoughts, beliefs, and settled convictions, not just their outward actions or words. The "heart" in Hebrew thought (both *nephesh* and *lêb*) refers to the entire inner being—intellect, will, emotions, and moral core. So, what one consistently calculates, believes, and purposes within their core self ultimately defines who they are. It emphasizes that our internal world is the wellspring of our external reality and behavior, even if that behavior is deceptive. This principle is foundational to understanding human nature in the Bible, as seen in [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guarding the Heart") and [Matthew 15:18-19](/matthew/15-18 "Matthew 15:18-19 - What Comes from the Heart").

**How does this verse apply to modern hospitality or social interactions?**

Answer: In modern contexts, Proverbs 23:7 serves as a timeless warning against insincere generosity and a call for genuine connection. It reminds us that an invitation to dinner, a gift, or a kind word can sometimes mask ulterior motives, resentment, or a grudging spirit. Whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or even online interactions, the verse encourages us to look beyond superficial pleasantries and discern the true heart and intentions of others. It also challenges us to be authentic hosts and friends ourselves, ensuring that our outward expressions of kindness are truly reflective of a sincere and generous heart, rather than being driven by obligation, manipulation, or a desire for personal gain.

**Is it possible to change what one "thinketh in their heart"?**

Answer: Absolutely. The Bible teaches that while the human heart can be naturally inclined towards sin and deceit ([Jeremiah 17:9](/jeremiah/17-9 "Jeremiah 17:9 - The Deceitful Heart")), it is also capable of transformation through God's grace. The New Testament especially emphasizes the renewal of the mind and heart by the Holy Spirit. Passages like [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation by Renewing the Mind") call believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind," which directly impacts what one "thinks in their heart." This transformation involves actively choosing to fill our minds with truth, righteousness, and the Word of God ([Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - What to Think About")), allowing the Holy Spirit to reshape our desires, intentions, and core beliefs, leading to a genuinely changed character.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:7 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. First, Jesus Himself perfectly embodies the principle that "as He thinketh in His heart, so is He." His entire life, ministry, and ultimate sacrifice were a seamless expression of the Father's will and His own pure, loving, and righteous heart. There was no disjunction between His outward actions and His inner being; He was the [Lamb of God without blemish or spot](/1_peter/1-19 "1 Peter 1:19 - Christ, the Lamb without Blemish"). Second, Jesus consistently exposed and condemned the very hypocrisy warned against in this proverb. He rebuked the Pharisees for being like [whitewashed tombs](/matthew/23-27 "Matthew 23:27 - Jesus Condemns Hypocrisy"), appearing righteous outwardly but full of corruption within, perfectly illustrating the danger of a heart not being "with thee" despite outward displays. Third, Jesus, as the divine Son, possessed perfect knowledge of the human heart, seeing beyond outward appearances to discern true motives ([John 2:24-25](/john/2-24 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People")). Finally, and most significantly, Christ's work on the cross and the subsequent gift of the Holy Spirit offer the only true solution to the problem of a deceitful heart. Through faith in Him, believers are promised a "new heart" and a "new spirit" ([Ezekiel 36:26](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26 - A New Heart and Spirit")), enabling them to genuinely think, desire, and live in alignment with God's will, transforming them from the inside out to reflect the authentic character of Christ.

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

Psalms 12:2

They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: [with] flattering lips [and] with a double heart do they speak.

Psalms 55:21

[The words] of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war [was] in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet [were] they drawn swords.

Judges 16:15

And she said unto him, How canst thou say, I love thee, when thine heart [is] not with me? thou hast mocked me these three times, and hast not told me wherein thy great strength [lieth].

Luke 11:37

¶ And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.

Luke 11:54

Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.

Matthew 9:3

And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This [man] blasphemeth.

Matthew 9:4

And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?