Proverbs 23:5
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
Original Language Analysis
וָע֥יּף
Wilt thou set
H5774
וָע֥יּף
Wilt thou set
Strong's:
H5774
Word #:
1 of 12
to fly; also (by implication of dimness) to faint (from the darkness of swooning)
עֵינֶ֥יךָ
thine eyes
H5869
עֵינֶ֥יךָ
thine eyes
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
2 of 12
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
וְֽאֵ֫ינֶ֥נּוּ
H369
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 12
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יַעֲשֶׂה
make
H6213
יַעֲשֶׂה
make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
6 of 12
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
יַעֲשֶׂה
make
H6213
יַעֲשֶׂה
make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
7 of 12
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
כְנָפַ֑יִם
themselves wings
H3671
כְנָפַ֑יִם
themselves wings
Strong's:
H3671
Word #:
9 of 12
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
Cross References
Proverbs 27:24For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?1 John 2:16For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.Matthew 6:19Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:1 Timothy 6:17Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;Ecclesiastes 12:8Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.Genesis 42:36And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved of my children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin away: all these things are against me.
Historical Context
Solomon himself experienced unprecedented wealth (1 Kings 10) yet recognized its fleeting nature. His observations of wealthy neighbors and trading partners would have confirmed that riches provide no ultimate security against death, political upheaval, or divine judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- What possessions or financial goals are you tempted to 'set your eyes upon' as sources of security?
- How can we pursue honest work and provision without making wealth an idol?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Riches are compared to an eagle flying away, emphasizing their temporary and unstable nature despite appearing substantial. The rhetorical question 'Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not?' exposes the folly of fixing hope on wealth that will inevitably vanish. This vivid imagery warns against covetousness and materialism, teaching that true security cannot be found in possessions.