Proverbs 23:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 23:29
29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
Chapter Context
Proverbs 23 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, wisdom, obedience. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 23:29
29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
Analysis
'Who hath woe? Who hath sorrow?' begins a vivid description of the drunkard's misery. The rhetorical questions catalogue suffering: woe, sorrow, contentions, babbling, wounds, red eyes. The answer comes in verse 30: 'They that tarry long at the wine.' Drunkenness produces comprehensive devastation—relational conflict ('contentions'), incoherent speech ('babbling'), physical injury ('wounds without cause'), and bloodshot eyes. What begins as pleasure ends in misery. Alcohol promises escape but delivers bondage and suffering. While Scripture permits moderate wine consumption, it consistently warns against drunkenness. Believers must exercise self-control and avoid enslaving themselves to any substance. Don't seek comfort or joy in bottles; find satisfaction in God alone.
Historical Context
Ancient cultures knew wine's dangers alongside its benefits. Biblical wisdom acknowledges wine's legitimate use (Psalm 104:15) while warning repeatedly against intoxication's devastating consequences.
Reflection
- Do you use alcohol (or any substance) moderately with self-control, or does it control you?
- What are you seeking in substances that should be found in God alone?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 20:1, 23:21, Genesis 49:12, 2 Samuel 13:28, Isaiah 5:11, 5:22