Proverbs 23:8 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 23:8 mean?

Proverbs 23:8 warns that if you accept food from someone with hidden motives, you will regret it—you will end up vomiting up what you ate and lose any pleasant conversation or goodwill you thought you gained. The verse suggests that accepting favors from someone insincere leads to discomfort and disappointment.

In this part of Proverbs, a wise teacher is advising a listener (often pictured as a young person) about the dangers of eating with people who are not truly generous or who have selfish intentions. The verse uses vivid language to show that both the physical enjoyment of the meal and any friendly words exchanged will be lost, highlighting the emptiness of relationships based on false generosity.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 23:8

• מָנָה (manah, H6595) — morsel: This word refers to a portion of food, emphasizing the concrete act of eating what is offered. The use of "morsel" highlights the smallness and insignificance of what is gained compared to what is lost.
• דָּבָר (davar, H1697) — words: This term means "words" or "things said." In this context, it points to the pleasant or flattering conversation that is ultimately lost, showing that not just the food, but also the relationship or goodwill, is spoiled.
• מָתוֹק (matoq, H5273) — sweet: This word means "sweet" or "pleasant," describing the words or conversation as appealing or enjoyable. The loss of "sweet words" underlines how even the good feelings from the interaction are undone.

Why Proverbs 23:8 matters

• Proverbs 23:8 clarifies that the harm is not only physical (vomiting up the food) but also relational or emotional (losing the sweet words), stressing that both tangible and intangible benefits are lost when dealing with someone insincere.
• This verse connects to the wider passage warning against eating with a "stingy" or "begrudging" host, reinforcing the idea that motives matter more than appearances in relationships.
• The proverb helps readers see that accepting gifts or hospitality from someone with hidden motives can backfire, leading to regret rather than blessing.