King James Version

What Does Proverbs 23:3 Mean?

Proverbs 23:3 in the King James Version says “Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.

Proverbs 23:3 · KJV


Context

1

When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:

2

And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.

3

Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.

4

Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

5

Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. set: Heb. cause thine eyes to fly upon


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Don't desire the ruler's 'dainties: for they are deceitful meat.' The Hebrew 'matam' (dainties/delicacies) and 'lechem kazab' (bread/food of lies) warn that luxurious food from rulers may have strings attached. This isn't about the food itself but about obligations created by accepting favors from the powerful. Reformed theology warns against being bought by worldly benefits. Esau sold his birthright for stew (Genesis 25:29-34). We must not trade spiritual integrity for temporary pleasures or advantages.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern hospitality created obligations. Accepting a ruler's feast implied alliance or submission. 'Deceitful meat' refers to food that appears generous but comes with hidden costs or manipulations.

Reflection Questions

  1. Are there 'dainties' offered by the world that would compromise your freedom or integrity if accepted?
  2. How do you discern when benefits from others come with unacceptable obligations?
  3. What does it mean to maintain independence from worldly entanglements while engaging culture?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
אַל1 of 6
H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תִּ֭תְאָו2 of 6

Be not desirous

H183

to wish for

לְמַטְעַמּוֹתָ֑יו3 of 6

of his dainties

H4303

a delicacy

וְ֝ה֗וּא4 of 6
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

לֶ֣חֶם5 of 6

meat

H3899

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

כְּזָבִֽים׃6 of 6

for they are deceitful

H3577

falsehood; literally (untruth) or figuratively (idol)


Study Guide

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 23:3 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 23:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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