King James Version

What Does Proverbs 23:5 Mean?

Proverbs 23:5 in the King James Version says “Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle t...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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”

Proverbs 23:5 · KJV

Context

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

6

Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

7

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

Read Proverbs 23 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Riches are compared to an eagle flying away, emphasizing their temporary and unstable nature despite appearing substantial. The rhetorical question 'Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not?' exposes the folly of fixing hope on wealth that will inevitably vanish. This vivid imagery warns against covetousness and materialism, teaching that true security cannot be found in possessions.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Solomon himself experienced unprecedented wealth (1 Kings 10) yet recognized its fleeting nature. His observations of wealthy neighbors and trading partners would have confirmed that riches provide no ultimate security against death, political upheaval, or divine judgment.

Reflection Questions

  1. What possessions or financial goals are you tempted to 'set your eyes upon' as sources of security?
  2. How can we pursue honest work and provision without making wealth an idol?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וָע֥יּף1 of 12

“Wilt thou set”

H5774

to fly; also (by implication of dimness) to faint (from the darkness of swooning)

עֵינֶ֥יךָ2 of 12

“thine eyes”

H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

בּ֗וֹ3 of 12
H0
וְֽאֵ֫ינֶ֥נּוּ4 of 12
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

כִּ֤י5 of 12
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יַעֲשֶׂה6 of 12

“make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

יַעֲשֶׂה7 of 12

“make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לּ֣וֹ8 of 12
H0
כְנָפַ֑יִם9 of 12

“themselves wings”

H3671

an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna

כְּ֝נֶ֗שֶׁר10 of 12

“as an eagle”

H5404

the eagle (or other large bird of prey)

וָע֥יּף11 of 12

“Wilt thou set”

H5774

to fly; also (by implication of dimness) to faint (from the darkness of swooning)

הַשָּׁמָֽיִם׃12 of 12

“toward heaven”

H8064

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

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 23:5 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 23:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 27:241 John 2:161 Timothy 6:17Matthew 6:19James 5:1-2Psalms 119:36-37

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 23 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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