King James Version
What Does Proverbs 21:17 Mean?
“He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. pleasure: or, sport”
Context
15
It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
16
The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
17
He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. pleasure: or, sport
18
The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.
19
It is better to dwell in the wilderness , than with a contentious and an angry woman. in: Heb. in the land of the desert
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **Wine and oil.—**The accompaniments of a feast. The oil, or precious unguents, were poured over the head (comp. Psalm 23:5). It was the excessive love and gratitude of the two Marys (Luke 7:38; John 12:3) which prompted them to anoint the Lord’s feet. These perfumes were sometimes of great value, the “pound of ointment of spikenard*” *(John 12:3) was worth “more than three hundred pence” (£10 12s. 6d.), the wages of a day labourer (Matthew 20:2) for nearly a year.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Proverbs 21:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Proverbs 21:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge