Proverbs 23:11-21

11 for their Redeemer is strong; he will take up their fight against you.
12 Apply your mind to discipline and your ears to words of knowledge.
13 Don't withhold discipline from a child -if you beat him with a stick, he won't die!
14 If you beat him with a stick, you will save him from Sh'ol
15 My son, if your heart is wise, then my own heart too is glad;
16 my inmost being rejoices when your lips say what is right.
17 Don't envy sinners, but follow the example of those who always fear God;
18 for then you will have a future; what you hope for will not be cut off.
19 You, my son: listen, be wise, and set your mind on the right way
20 Don't be one of those who guzzle wine or of those who eat meat to excess,
21 for both drunkard and glutton will become poor -drowsiness will clothe them with rags

Proverbs 23:11-21 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 11

This chapter relates the false steps Solomon took, notwithstanding all his wisdom, in marrying strange wives, and worshipping other gods, 1Ki 11:1-8 upon which the Lord threatens him to rend the kingdom in his son's time, 1Ki 11:9-13 and he raised up adversaries against him, Hadad, Rezon, and Jeroboam, 1Ki 11:14-26 of which last an account is given, and of his being assured by Ahijah the prophet of his having ten of the tribes of Israel given to him; which Solomon having notice of sought to slay him, 1Ki 11:27-40 and the chapter is concluded with an account of Solomon's death and burial, 1Ki 11:41-43.

Complete Jewish Bible Copyright 1998 by David H. Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.