Old Testament
Proverbs 23:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
Compare translations
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
What Proverbs 23:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns against the futility of focusing on wealth and material possessions. It suggests that riches are temporary and can disappear quickly, much like an eagle soaring away into the sky. The imagery of wealth having wings emphasizes its elusive nature. Instead of fixating on accumulating wealth, one should consider the transient nature of riches and the importance of valuing what truly lasts, such as relationships, character, and spiritual growth. The verse encourages a mindset that prioritizes lasting values over fleeting material gains, reminding us that true security and fulfillment come from sources beyond mere financial wealth.
How to apply Proverbs 23:5 to your life
Reflect on your relationship with money and possessions. Consider how much time and energy you invest in pursuing wealth. Shift your focus towards building meaningful relationships and nurturing your spiritual life, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from what endures beyond material wealth.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 23:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 23:5
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 23:5 mean?
Proverbs 23:5 warns against the danger of fixating on wealth, highlighting that riches are temporary and can vanish quickly. The verse uses the imagery of wings to illustrate how easily wealth can slip away, encouraging a focus on lasting values instead.
What is the meaning of 'riches make themselves wings' in Proverbs 23:5?
The phrase 'riches make themselves wings' in Proverbs 23:5 suggests that wealth is fleeting and can disappear unexpectedly. It serves as a reminder that material possessions are not a reliable source of security.
How can I apply Proverbs 23:5 to my life?
To apply Proverbs 23:5, reflect on how much time you spend chasing money and consider shifting your focus to meaningful relationships and personal growth. Recognize that true fulfillment comes from what lasts beyond material wealth.
What themes are present in Proverbs 23:5?
Proverbs 23:5 presents themes such as the futility of wealth, the temporary nature of riches, and the importance of focusing on lasting values. It also warns against materialism and promotes wisdom in financial matters.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.