Proverbs 23:6 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 23:6 mean?

Proverbs 23:6 warns the reader not to eat the food of someone who has an "evil eye," and not to desire the special dishes such a person offers. The verse suggests that accepting hospitality from someone with bad intentions or a selfish attitude is unwise.

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, often presented as advice from a teacher or parent to a younger person. In this verse, the speaker cautions against trusting or becoming too comfortable with people who are stingy, envious, or have hidden motives. The "evil eye" refers to someone who looks at others with jealousy or ill will, and the verse uses the example of shared food to highlight the risks of accepting generosity from someone whose heart is not sincere.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 23:6

• "Eat" (אָכַל, 'akal): This word means to consume food, but in the context of Proverbs, it can also suggest sharing in someone’s company or accepting their hospitality. The warning is not just about the food itself, but about the relationship and influence that come with it.
• "Evil" (רַע, ra‘) + "eye" (עַיִן, ‘ayin): The phrase "evil eye" is a Hebrew expression for someone who is greedy, envious, or begrudging. It points to a person who looks at others with resentment or selfishness, not genuine kindness.
• "Desire" (אָוָה, 'avah): This word means to long for or covet. The verse warns against even wanting the "dainty meats" or special foods of such a person, not just eating them.
• "Meats" (מַטְעַם, maṭ‘am): Here, this refers to delicacies or special dishes, not just ordinary food. The verse singles out the temptation of appealing, luxurious offerings that might come with strings attached.

Why Proverbs 23:6 matters

• Proverbs 23:6 helps the reader see that not all hospitality is genuine; sometimes, generosity can be a cover for selfish motives or manipulation.
• The verse connects to the surrounding passage, which warns about the dangers of greed, flattery, and trusting the wrong people, showing that wisdom involves discernment in relationships as well as actions.
• This proverb clarifies that it is not just the act of eating that matters, but the character and intentions of the person offering the food, highlighting the importance of being cautious about whom we trust and accept gifts from.