Proverbs 23:29 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 23:29 mean?

Proverbs 23:29 lists a series of troubles—woe, sorrow, arguments, senseless talk, injuries without reason, and bloodshot eyes—and asks who experiences these things. The verse is setting up a description of people who suffer these problems, hinting that these are the results of certain choices or behaviors.

In the context of Proverbs, these questions are spoken by the wise teacher (traditionally Solomon) to his audience, urging them to think carefully about the cause of such misery. The surrounding verses make clear that the focus is on the dangers of excessive drinking, and this verse introduces the symptoms and consequences that follow a life given to alcohol.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 23:29

• "Woe" (אוֹי, 'oy', H188) is a word expressing deep distress or misery, not just a mild complaint. Its use signals that the troubles listed are serious and painful.
• "Contentions" (מִדְוָנִים, midwanim, H4066) refers to quarrels or disputes, highlighting that conflict with others is one of the results being described.
• "Babbling" (שִׂיחַ, siach, H7879) often means senseless or confused talk, pointing to the loss of self-control and clarity.
• "Redness" (חַכְלִלוּת, chaklilut, H2448) of "eyes" (עֵינַיִם, einayim, H5869) is a vivid image, likely describing the physical effects of drunkenness.

Why Proverbs 23:29 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that the problems listed are random or unrelated; instead, Proverbs is about to show that these troubles have a common source.
• By stacking up these symptoms, the verse prepares the reader to recognize the warning in the next verses about alcohol, making the lesson more memorable and concrete.
• The verse connects personal suffering (woe, sorrow) with social problems (arguments, babbling), showing that the consequences of certain choices affect both the individual and their relationships.