Proverbs 23:30
They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
Original Language Analysis
לַֽמְאַחֲרִ֥ים
They that tarry long
H309
לַֽמְאַחֲרִ֥ים
They that tarry long
Strong's:
H309
Word #:
1 of 6
to loiter (i.e., be behind); by implication to procrastinate
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 6
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַיָּ֑יִן
at the wine
H3196
הַיָּ֑יִן
at the wine
Strong's:
H3196
Word #:
3 of 6
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
לַ֝בָּאִ֗ים
they that go
H935
לַ֝בָּאִ֗ים
they that go
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
4 of 6
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
Cross References
Ephesians 5:18And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;Isaiah 5:11Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!Proverbs 20:1Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.Psalms 75:8For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring them out, and drink them.Proverbs 9:2She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.Amos 6:6That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph.
Historical Context
Ancient civilizations dealt with alcoholism and its social destruction. Despite changing drinking customs, the warning remains relevant: excessive, controlling consumption produces misery.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you 'tarry long' at any vice or indulgence, organizing life around it?
- What has mastery over you that competes with Christ's lordship?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The answer to verse 29's questions: 'They that tarry long at the wine' and 'seek mixed wine' (strong drink) experience all that misery. 'Tarrying long' indicates not casual consumption but excessive indulgence. 'Seeking mixed wine' suggests pursuit of stronger intoxication. These people organize life around drinking, making it a priority and pursuit. The result is the catalogue of woes described in verse 29. This warns against not merely drunkenness but the lifestyle that leads to it—making alcohol a focus rather than occasional refreshment. Believers must not be mastered by anything except Christ (1 Corinthians 6:12). Whatever controls you besides God is an idol requiring repentance.