Proverbs 23:31

Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

Proverbs 23:31 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of a longer warning in Proverbs 23:29-35 about the dangers of heavy drinking. The surrounding passage describes the sorrow, arguments, and physical harm that come to those who linger over wine. In the ancient world, wine was common at meals and celebrations, yet Proverbs repeatedly urges restraint. The warning here is practical: do not let the attractive sight of wine draw you toward drunkenness.

Meaning

The verse pictures wine as red, with color in the cup, and moving smoothly. These words emphasize its beauty and appeal. The instruction “look not thou upon” is stronger than a casual glance; it means do not gaze with desire or fix your attention on it. The danger begins with the eyes. What looks pleasant can lead a person into harm. The next verse explains the outcome: it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. The sparkling drink promises pleasure but delivers pain.

Biblical connections

Proverbs 20:1 also warns that wine is a mocker and strong drink is raging, showing that this caution is consistent with the book’s teaching. The same principle appears in the New Testament, where believers are told not to be drunk with wine but to be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). Both passages call for self-control and a clear mind.

Application

This verse teaches us to guard our eyes and hearts. Temptation often begins with what we allow ourselves to see and admire. We can apply this by avoiding places or habits that make drunkenness seem attractive. It also encourages moderation and wise choices. For those who choose to drink, the call is to do so with care and never to pursue intoxication. For all believers, the deeper lesson is to resist the pull of anything that looks appealing but leads to sin.

Reflection

God’s wisdom does not forbid all pleasure, but it warns us against what destroys. The red wine in the cup is a picture of how sin often appears desirable before it harms us. We are invited to trust that God’s way of self-control leads to true joy, not the false promise of the intoxicating drink. Let us ask for discernment to see beyond outward beauty and to choose what brings life and peace.