Proverbs 10:26
As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.
Original Language Analysis
לַשִּׁנַּ֗יִם
to the teeth
H8127
לַשִּׁנַּ֗יִם
to the teeth
Strong's:
H8127
Word #:
2 of 7
a tooth (as sharp); specifically ivory; figuratively, a cliff
וְכֶעָשָׁ֥ן
and as smoke
H6227
וְכֶעָשָׁ֥ן
and as smoke
Strong's:
H6227
Word #:
3 of 7
smoke, literally or figuratively (vapor, dust, anger)
לָעֵינָ֑יִם
to the eyes
H5869
לָעֵינָ֑יִם
to the eyes
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
4 of 7
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
כֵּ֥ן
H3651
כֵּ֥ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
Historical Context
Agricultural and commercial society depended on reliable workers. A sluggard's failure to fulfill responsibilities caused cascading problems for entire household or business venture.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your sloth or diligence affect others depending on you?
- In what ways might you be causing 'vinegar to the teeth' of those you serve?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him. The sluggard causes intense irritation to those depending on him - like vinegar's sting or smoke's irritation. This verse addresses the social dimension of sloth - it doesn't merely harm the sluggard but frustrates everyone relying on him. Sloth violates love of neighbor by failing to fulfill responsibilities others depend upon.