Proverbs 23
AOSNProverbs 23:1-3
Saying 6: Many proverbs advise young men in government jobs. A ruler's rich food might tempt a newcomer to overeat due to lack of self-control. But he will be at risk when full.
Proverbs 23:4-5
Saying 7: Wealth can be a blessing from God (Proverbs 3:9–10, 15–16; 10:22), but some things in life matter more.
Proverbs 23:6-8
Proverbs highly values generosity (Proverbs 11:24–26; 21:13; 22:9).
Proverbs 23:9
Saying 9: Fools do not listen to advice (compare Proverbs 9:7–12; 10:18), so wise people do not waste their words (see Matthew 7:6).
Proverbs 23:10-11
Saying 10: Wise people avoid unfair business practices and illegitimate gains (see Proverbs 22:28), knowing that the Lord will judge wrongdoing.
Redeemer: The New Living Translation is likely correct in capitalizing the word Redeemer and identifying it with God, although it might refer to a human redeemer.
Proverbs 23:12
Saying 11: Listen carefully: Learning helps you improve (see Proverbs 10:17; 13:1, 10; 15:24, 31–32; 17:10; 19:24).
Proverbs 23:13-14
Saying 12: Refer to Proverbs 19:18; 29:17.
Proverbs 23:15-16
Saying 13: A wise parent feels joy when their child is wise (see Proverbs 10:1).
Proverbs 23:17-18
Saying 14: Sometimes sinners succeed, but the wise know that fearing the Lord brings true rewards (see Proverbs 1:7).
Proverbs 23:19-21
Saying 15: Discipline is essential for a wise and balanced life. Drinking too much (drunkards, see also Proverbs 23:29–35), overeating (gluttons, see also Proverbs 23:1–3), or oversleeping (see also Proverbs 10:5; 19:15) leads to poverty.
Proverbs 23:22-25
Saying 16: This saying encourages seeking the wisdom that both a godly father and mother offer. Unlike other ancient Near East wisdom texts, Proverbs credits wisdom to both parents (Proverbs 1:8; 6:20).
Proverbs 23:26-28
Saying 17: Falling for a promiscuous woman is a trap, not a benefit. Proverbs often warns against sexual relations outside of marriage (see Proverbs 5; 6:20–35; 7:1–27).
Proverbs 23:29-35
Saying 18: This saying highlights the foolishness of someone who drinks too much alcohol (see Proverbs 20:1).
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