Proverbs 23:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If you struggle with appetite and desires, exercise strict self-discipline.
The Context of Proverbs 23:2
Practical instruction on restraining appetite in formal settings.
What Does Proverbs 23:2 Mean?
This is hyperbolic language emphasizing the severity of losing control to appetite. The knife symbolizes the radical action needed to restrain impulses—not literal self-harm, but the kind of decisive internal discipline a person must exercise over their own desires.
When seated with a ruler, your appetite (for food, approval, or advancement) could betray you into foolish words or actions. The verse warns that unchecked desire weakens your judgment and puts you at the mercy of others' manipulation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 23:2
What does Proverbs 23:2 mean?
If you struggle with appetite and desires, exercise strict self-discipline.
What is the context of Proverbs 23:2?
Practical instruction on restraining appetite in formal settings.