King James Version

What Does Proverbs 31:7 Mean?

Proverbs 31:7 in the King James Version says “Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.”

Proverbs 31:7 · KJV

Context

5

Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted . prevert: Heb. alter of any: Heb. of all the sons of affliction

6

Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. of: Heb. bitter of soul

7

Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.

8

Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. such: Heb. the sons of destruction

9

Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

Read Proverbs 31 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Let him drink, and forget his poverty—The Hebrew rishon (רִישׁוֹן, poverty/lack) describes destitution. For one ready to perish (v. 6), temporary forgetfulness of suffering is merciful. The phrase remember his misery no more (וַעֲמָלוֹ לֹא יִזְכָּר־עוֹד, va'amalo lo yizkar-od) speaks to compassionate relief from amal (עָמָל, toil/trouble/misery).

This stands in stark contrast to verses 4-5 where rulers must never cloud their judgment with drink. The wisdom literature consistently distinguishes between those with ongoing responsibilities (who must remain sober) and those for whom earthly responsibilities have ended (who may receive merciful relief). This prefigures Christ who, though offered pain relief, chose to remain fully conscious to accomplish redemption.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In ancient Israel, wine served social and medicinal functions. The poor rarely afforded strong drink, making this prescription particularly striking—even the destitute dying deserve comfort. This reflects covenantal compassion for society's most vulnerable.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does Scripture permit what it elsewhere restricts—what principle of wisdom governs the ethical use of substances?
  2. How should the church balance compassionate relief of suffering with the call to remain sober-minded (1 Peter 5:8)?
  3. What does Christ's choice to feel the full weight of the cross teach about redemptive suffering versus escapism?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
יִ֭שְׁתֶּה1 of 7

“Let him drink”

H8354

to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

וְיִשְׁכַּ֣ח2 of 7

“and forget”

H7911

to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention

רִישׁ֑וֹ3 of 7

“his poverty”

H7389

poverty

וַ֝עֲמָל֗וֹ4 of 7

“his misery”

H5999

toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind

לֹ֣א5 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִזְכָּר6 of 7

“and remember”

H2142

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

עֽוֹד׃7 of 7
H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

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 31:7 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 31:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 5:18

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