Proverbs 21:17
He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
Original Language Analysis
אִ֣ישׁ
man
H376
אִ֣ישׁ
man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
1 of 9
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
וָ֝שֶׁ֗מֶן
and oil
H8081
וָ֝שֶׁ֗מֶן
and oil
Strong's:
H8081
Word #:
7 of 9
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
Cross References
Proverbs 23:21For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.1 Timothy 5:6But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.2 Timothy 3:4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;Proverbs 21:20There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.
Historical Context
Wine and oil were luxury items in ancient Israel, representing abundance and celebration. Excessive consumption indicated wasteful living that would deplete resources.
Questions for Reflection
- What pleasures or comforts are you pursuing at the expense of faithful stewardship?
- How can you cultivate self-control and contentment rather than chasing sensual gratification?
Analysis & Commentary
Loving pleasure and luxury leads to poverty—'shall be a poor man.' Wine and oil represent indulgence and sensual gratification. Those who prioritize comfort and pleasure squander resources that should be stewarded wisely. This isn't condemning legitimate enjoyment of God's gifts but warning against making pleasure an idol. When present gratification becomes life's organizing principle, financial and spiritual ruin follow. The hedonist mortgages future stability for momentary pleasure. By contrast, the wise person practices self-control, delayed gratification, and proper priorities. The principle extends beyond economics: those who live for pleasure miss life's true purpose—glorifying God. Eternal pleasures at God's right hand far exceed temporal indulgence.