Old Testament
Proverbs 25:27
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 highlights the dangers of excess and self-promotion.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
It is not good to eat too much honey, and for men to seek their own glory is not glory.
It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs highlights the dangers of excess and self-promotion. Just as eating too much honey can lead to discomfort and negative consequences, seeking one's own glory can lead to pride and a lack of true honor. The verse suggests that moderation is key in all things, including our desires for recognition and praise. It reminds us that true glory comes not from self-seeking but from humility and serving others. In essence, the pursuit of personal glory often leads to emptiness, while genuine respect and honor are earned through character and actions rather than self-promotion. This wisdom encourages us to focus on being humble and to seek the well-being of others rather than our own fame or status.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 25:27 to your life
To apply this verse, practice moderation in your pursuits and avoid seeking recognition for your achievements. Focus on serving others and building them up instead of seeking personal glory. This approach fosters genuine relationships and leads to a more fulfilling life.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 25:27 mean?
Proverbs 25:27 warns against the dangers of excess and self-promotion. It compares eating too much honey, which can lead to discomfort, to seeking one's own glory, which can result in pride and a lack of true honor.
What is the meaning of seeking one's own glory in Proverbs 25:27?
Seeking one's own glory in Proverbs 25:27 refers to the act of pursuing recognition and praise for oneself. The verse suggests that this pursuit often leads to emptiness and does not result in true respect or honor.
How can I apply Proverbs 25:27 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 25:27, focus on moderation in your achievements and avoid seeking recognition. Instead, prioritize serving others and building them up, which can lead to more meaningful relationships and fulfillment.
What themes are present in Proverbs 25:27?
Proverbs 25:27 highlights themes of moderation, humility, self-promotion, and true honor. It emphasizes the wisdom of avoiding excess and the importance of earning respect through character and actions.
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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