Proverbs 17:1
Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.
Original Language Analysis
ט֤וֹב
Better
H2896
ט֤וֹב
Better
Strong's:
H2896
Word #:
1 of 9
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
מִ֝בַּ֗יִת
therewith than an house
H1004
מִ֝בַּ֗יִת
therewith than an house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
6 of 9
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
מָלֵ֥א
full
H4392
מָלֵ֥א
full
Strong's:
H4392
Word #:
7 of 9
full (literally or figuratively) or filling (literally); also (concretely) fulness; adverbially, fully
Cross References
Proverbs 15:17Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.Proverbs 21:19It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.Psalms 37:16A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.Proverbs 21:9It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
Historical Context
Sacrificial feasts were occasions of abundance in ancient Israel, yet family strife could poison even these sacred meals. Solomon contrasts external religious observance with genuine relational peace.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you prioritize peace over prosperity in your household?
- What contentment with little would bring more joy than abundance with conflict?
Analysis & Commentary
This 'better than' proverb prioritizes peace over plenty. A dry morsel (minimal food) with quietness surpasses a house full of sacrifices (abundance) with strife. The Hebrew 'shalem' (quietness) suggests wholeness and peace. Reformed theology recognizes contentment as gift of grace, valuing covenant harmony over material prosperity.