Proverbs 25:16
Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.
Original Language Analysis
מָ֭צָאתָ
Hast thou found
H4672
מָ֭צָאתָ
Hast thou found
Strong's:
H4672
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
דַּיֶּ֑ךָּ
so much as is sufficient
H1767
דַּיֶּ֑ךָּ
so much as is sufficient
Strong's:
H1767
Word #:
4 of 7
enough (as noun or adverb), used chiefly with preposition in phrases
פֶּן
H6435
פֶּן
Strong's:
H6435
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
Historical Context
Proverbs 25:27 similarly warns: 'It is not good to eat much honey.' Honey was rare sweetness in ancient diet, making overindulgence tempting when available. Modern abundance makes temperance harder - constant access to pleasures our ancestors rarely experienced. First Corinthians 6:12 applies this broadly: 'All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.'
Questions for Reflection
- What legitimate pleasures are you enjoying to excess, causing harm rather than good?
- How can you practice moderation and self-control regarding food, entertainment, leisure?
- What does it reveal about idolatry when good gifts are pursued beyond appropriate limits?
Analysis & Commentary
Found honey? Eat only enough; lest you be full and vomit it. The Hebrew 'devash' (honey) and 'sava' (satisfied/full to excess) warns against overindulgence. Even good things become harmful in excess. Honey represents pleasure and sweetness - desirable but dangerous if overdone. This verse teaches moderation: enjoy good gifts without gluttony. Temperance applies to all pleasures, even legitimate ones. Self-control honors God; indulgence dishonors both gift and Giver.