Proverbs 25:17 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 25:17 mean?

Proverbs 25:17 warns against visiting your neighbor’s house too often, saying that if you are always there, your neighbor may become tired of you and even come to dislike you. The verse encourages respect for personal boundaries in relationships.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings attributed to Solomon, directed to anyone seeking practical guidance for daily life. The advice uses the image of a person’s “foot” in a neighbor’s house to illustrate the idea of overstaying your welcome. The focus is on social wisdom—knowing when to give others space so that relationships remain healthy and friendly.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 25:17

• "Withdraw" (רַגֵּל, ragel): This word means to keep your foot away or to limit your visits. The idea is not just to leave, but to be careful about how often you go.
• "Weary" (שָׂבַע, sava‘): This word means to be full or satisfied, often to the point of being fed up. Here, it suggests that too much presence can make someone feel overloaded or annoyed.
• "Hate" (שָׂנֵא, sane’): This word means to come to dislike or even detest. The proverb warns that too much familiarity can turn friendliness into resentment.

Why Proverbs 25:17 matters

• Proverbs 25:17 clears up the idea that good intentions or friendliness always lead to good relationships; it shows that even positive actions, if overdone, can have negative effects.
• The verse emphasizes the importance of balance and sensitivity in friendships, highlighting that respect for boundaries is a key part of wisdom.
• This proverb fits into a broader theme in Proverbs about self-control and awareness of others’ needs, reminding readers that wisdom is practical and relational.