Old Testament
Proverbs 23:29
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from Proverbs 23:29 poses a series of rhetorical questions that highlight the negative consequences of excessive drinking and indulgence.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has conflicts? Who has babbling? Who has wounds without reason? Who has red eyes?
Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs 23:29 poses a series of rhetorical questions that highlight the negative consequences of excessive drinking and indulgence. It asks who experiences woe, sorrow, conflicts, and physical ailments like wounds and red eyes, all of which are often associated with the effects of alcohol. The verse serves as a warning about the dangers of overindulgence, particularly in drinking, which can lead to a range of problems including emotional distress, interpersonal conflicts, and physical harm. The imagery of red eyes suggests a lack of clarity and the toll that such a lifestyle can take on one's health and well-being. Overall, this passage encourages readers to reflect on their choices and the potential repercussions of their actions, particularly regarding substances that can impair judgment and lead to suffering. Explore related reflection.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 23:29 to your life
To avoid the pitfalls described in this verse, it's important to practice moderation and self-control, especially regarding alcohol consumption. Reflect on your habits and consider how they affect your emotional and physical health. Make choices that promote well-being and positive relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 23:29 warn about?
Proverbs 23:29 warns about the negative consequences of excessive drinking and indulgence. It highlights the emotional and physical toll that such behaviors can take, including woe, sorrow, conflicts, and health issues like red eyes and wounds.
How can I apply Proverbs 23:29 to my life?
To apply Proverbs 23:29, practice moderation in your habits, especially regarding alcohol. Reflect on how your choices impact your emotional and physical health, and strive to make decisions that foster well-being and positive relationships.
What are the signs mentioned in Proverbs 23:29?
The signs mentioned in Proverbs 23:29 include woe, sorrow, conflicts, babbling, wounds without cause, and redness of eyes. These symptoms are often associated with the effects of excessive drinking and serve as a warning against overindulgence.
Why does Proverbs 23:29 use rhetorical questions?
Proverbs 23:29 uses rhetorical questions to provoke thought and self-reflection. By asking who experiences these negative consequences, it encourages readers to consider their own behaviors and the potential repercussions of indulgence.
The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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