25:26 25:26

Proverbs 25:27

25:28 25:28

Bible Versions

¶ [It is] not good to eat much honey: so [for men] to search their own glory [is not] glory.
It is not good {H2896} to eat {H398} much {H7235} honey {H1706}: so for men to search {H2714} their own glory {H3519} is not glory {H3519}.
It isn't good to eat too much honey or to seek honor after honor.
It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.
It is not good to eat much honey; Sofor mento search out their own glory is grievous.

Proverbs 25:27 offers a vivid analogy, comparing the detrimental effects of excessive self-promotion to the unpleasantness of eating too much honey. This verse, part of the collection of Solomon's proverbs copied by Hezekiah's men, provides timeless wisdom on humility and the nature of true honor.

Historical and Cultural Context

In ancient Israel, honey was a highly valued commodity, often symbolizing pleasantness, abundance, and wisdom (as seen in Proverbs 24:13). It was a natural sweetener and a source of quick energy. However, even something as delightful as honey can become nauseating or harmful if consumed in excess. This common experience forms the basis for the proverb's powerful comparison, making it relatable to a general audience then and now.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Moderation: The proverb first teaches the principle of moderation. Just as there's a limit to how much good things can be enjoyed, there's a limit to what is truly beneficial in all areas of life.
  • The Folly of Self-Exaltation: The core message warns against the pursuit of personal glory. When individuals "search their own glory," they are actively seeking praise, recognition, or honor for themselves. The proverb declares that such a pursuit "is not glory," meaning it does not lead to genuine honor, respect, or lasting reputation. Instead, it often results in disdain, emptiness, or even shame.
  • True Glory vs. False Glory: The verse implicitly contrasts the fleeting, self-sought glory with true, God-given honor or the glory that comes from serving others. True honor is often a byproduct of humility and righteous living, not something aggressively pursued. This aligns with other biblical teachings that emphasize humility preceding honor.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "glory" used here is kavod (כָּבוֹד), which can mean weight, honor, dignity, or reputation. When one "searches their own kavod," it implies an unhealthy preoccupation with one's own standing or importance. The repetition of "is not glory" emphatically denies that such a pursuit will achieve true kavod. It becomes burdensome, much like an overindulgence of honey.

Practical Application

Proverbs 25:27 encourages believers to examine their motives. Are we seeking recognition for ourselves, or are we striving to honor God and serve others? In an age saturated with self-promotion through social media and personal branding, this proverb serves as a vital reminder:

  • Cultivate Humility: Focus on character and service rather than self-aggrandizement. True influence and respect often come from a humble spirit, not from boasting.
  • Seek God's Glory: Instead of seeking our own praise, our ultimate aim should be to bring glory to God in all we do, as articulated in 1 Corinthians 10:31.
  • Beware of Pride: The desire for personal glory can quickly lead to pride, which the Bible consistently warns against as destructive (Proverbs 16:18).

Ultimately, this proverb teaches that genuine honor is not something we can manufacture or seize; it is often bestowed upon those who are least concerned with acquiring it for themselves, but rather with living righteously and serving genuinely.

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.

  • John 5:44

    How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that [cometh] from God only?

  • Proverbs 27:2

    ¶ Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

  • Philippians 2:3

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:1

    ¶ It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

  • Proverbs 25:16

    ¶ Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:11

    ¶ I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.
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