Proverbs 23:21
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
Original Language Analysis
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
וְ֭זוֹלֵל
and the glutton
H2151
וְ֭זוֹלֵל
and the glutton
Strong's:
H2151
Word #:
3 of 7
figuratively, to be loose morally, worthless or prodigal
יִוָּרֵ֑שׁ
shall come to poverty
H3423
יִוָּרֵ֑שׁ
shall come to poverty
Strong's:
H3423
Word #:
4 of 7
to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish
Cross References
Proverbs 21:17He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.1 Corinthians 5:11But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.Galatians 5:21Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.Philippians 3:19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)Proverbs 19:15Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.Deuteronomy 21:20And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard.Joel 1:5Awake, ye drunkards, and weep; and howl, all ye drinkers of wine, because of the new wine; for it is cut off from your mouth.
Historical Context
Ancient societies recognized that chronic drunkenness and gluttony led to poverty. Despite modern wealth insulating some from immediate consequences, the principle remains: indulgence produces dysfunction.
Questions for Reflection
- What areas of indulgence or lack of self-control are leading you toward spiritual or material poverty?
- How can you cultivate greater discipline in eating, drinking, and consuming?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Drunkards and gluttons 'shall come to poverty'—excessive indulgence produces economic ruin. 'Drowsiness' (stupor from overconsumption) leads to wearing 'rags' (poverty's marker). This continues the warning from verse 20 by describing consequences. Those who pursue pleasure squander resources and neglect productive work, inevitably ending in want. The principle extends beyond literal drunkenness to any form of excess that prioritizes gratification over stewardship. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit; lack of it demonstrates carnality. Believers must practice moderation in all things, stewarding resources wisely and avoiding enslavement to appetites. Discipline yourself or reap discipline's consequences.