Proverbs 23:32
At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.
Original Language Analysis
אַ֭חֲרִיתוֹ
At the last
H319
אַ֭חֲרִיתוֹ
At the last
Strong's:
H319
Word #:
1 of 5
the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity
יִשָּׁ֑ךְ
it biteth
H5391
יִשָּׁ֑ךְ
it biteth
Strong's:
H5391
Word #:
3 of 5
to strike with a sting (as a serpent); figuratively, to oppress with interest on a loan
Historical Context
Ancient world knew venomous serpents' danger. The comparison would have been vivid and frightening, emphasizing drunkenness's deadly nature despite its pleasant beginning.
Questions for Reflection
- What sins are you tolerating because they seem harmless initially?
- How can you remember the 'serpent bite' outcome when tempted by sin's smooth appearance?
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Analysis & Commentary
Wine that appears smooth and attractive (v. 31) ultimately 'biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.' Initial pleasure transforms to pain and poison. The serpent imagery evokes both danger and satanic deception—what appears harmless proves deadly. Drunkenness may begin pleasantly but ends in addiction, impaired judgment, health destruction, and spiritual death. The principle extends to all sin: momentary pleasure conceals lasting harm. Satan still deceives through attractive packaging on poison. Believers must look at sin through gospel lenses, seeing its true nature as rebellion against God and destroyer of souls. Don't be deceived by smooth beginnings; remember serpentine endings.