He who loves pleasure will become poor;This phrase warns against the pursuit of pleasure as a primary goal in life. In biblical context, the love of pleasure is often associated with a lack of discipline and foresight, leading to poverty. The Bible frequently contrasts the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures with the enduring value of wisdom and righteousness (
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11). Historically, the pursuit of pleasure without regard for responsibility has led to the downfall of individuals and nations, as seen in the stories of figures like Samson (Judges 16) and the nation of Israel during periods of apostasy. Theologically, this phrase underscores the biblical principle that true fulfillment and prosperity come from a life aligned with God's will, rather than the pursuit of hedonistic desires.
the one who loves wine and oil will never be rich.
Wine and oil in ancient Israel were symbols of wealth and abundance, often used in religious rituals and as staples in the diet (Deuteronomy 7:13). However, an excessive love for these items indicates indulgence and a lack of self-control. The cultural context of the time viewed moderation as a virtue, and the Bible frequently warns against drunkenness and gluttony (Proverbs 23:20-21,Ephesians 5:18). This phrase suggests that those who prioritize luxury and excess over prudent management of resources will fail to achieve lasting wealth. In a broader spiritual sense, it reflects the teaching that spiritual riches are of greater value than material wealth, as seen in Jesus' teachings about storing treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and godly living are captured in the book of Proverbs.
2.
Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical context of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was a key part of teaching and guiding the community in righteous living.
3.
Pleasure SeekersThis refers to individuals who prioritize personal enjoyment and indulgence over discipline and responsibility, leading to potential poverty.
4.
Wine and OilIn ancient times, wine and oil were symbols of luxury and wealth. They were often used in celebrations and anointing, representing abundance and prosperity.
5.
Poverty and WealthThese are recurring themes in Proverbs, often used to illustrate the consequences of wise versus foolish living.
Teaching Points
The Danger of IndulgencePursuing pleasure as a primary goal can lead to financial and spiritual poverty. Christians are called to exercise self-control and prioritize godly living over temporary pleasures.
The Illusion of WealthLoving luxury items like wine and oil can create a false sense of security. True wealth is found in a relationship with God and living according to His principles.
Wisdom in Financial StewardshipProverbs encourages wise management of resources. Christians should seek to balance enjoyment with responsibility, ensuring that their financial practices honor God.
Contentment in ChristTrue contentment comes from a relationship with Christ, not from material possessions or indulgent living. Believers are encouraged to find joy in God's provision and purpose.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:17?
2.How does Proverbs 21:17 warn against the love of pleasure and luxury?
3.What are the consequences of loving pleasure according to Proverbs 21:17?
4.How can Proverbs 21:17 guide our financial stewardship and spending habits?
5.Which other Proverbs emphasize the dangers of pursuing pleasure over wisdom?
6.How can we balance enjoyment and responsibility in light of Proverbs 21:17?
7.How does Proverbs 21:17 challenge the pursuit of pleasure in modern society?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 21:17?
9.How does Proverbs 21:17 relate to financial stewardship and responsibility?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 21?
11.How do we reconcile the portrayal of lavish banquets in Esther 1 with other biblical condemnations of excess and opulence?
12.What is the Bible's view on alternative medicine?
13.What does the Bible say about Ayurvedic medicine?
14.In Leviticus 1:9, why is a 'pleasing aroma' significant to an omnipotent, immaterial God?What Does Proverbs 21:17 Mean
He who loves pleasure–Proverbs 21:17 warns that an unchecked craving for entertainment, indulgence, or comfort puts a person on a dangerous path. The word “loves” speaks of devotion; pleasure becomes a driving affection rather than an occasional refreshment.
– Scripture shows that when pleasure is elevated, devotion to God diminishes. Paul describes the last days as filled with people “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:4).
– The prodigal son “squandered his wealth in wild living” and found himself in ruin (Luke 15:13-14). He loved pleasure first, and poverty followed.
– Healthy enjoyment of God’s gifts is not condemned (1 Timothy 6:17), but when pleasure becomes lord, it crowds out wise stewardship and spiritual focus.
Will become poor– The verse states the outcome plainly: persistent self-indulgence empties the purse.Proverbs 23:20-21 echoes this: “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags”.
– Financial loss can come through overspending, missed opportunities, and weakened discipline. Pleasure-chasing siphons resources that could have been invested or given.
– Poverty here can be broader than money: spiritual poverty, broken relationships, and lost purpose often accompany material decline.
The one who loves wine and oil– “Wine and oil” were symbols of luxury in ancient Israel—fine drink and rich cosmetics or cooking oil. They represent refined, costly delights rather than necessities.
–Isaiah 5:11 pronounces woe on those who “rise early to pursue strong drink” and spend their evenings inflamed by wine.Amos 6:6 pictures people who “drink wine by the bowlful and anoint themselves with the finest oils” while ignoring deeper matters.
– Loving these luxuries points to a heart set on continual self-gratification instead of service, generosity, or eternal priorities.
Will never be rich– A lifestyle centered on luxury keeps real wealth—both material and spiritual—out of reach.Proverbs 13:7 observes, “One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth”.
– True riches include wisdom, contentment, and eternal treasure (Matthew 6:19-21). Chasing earthly luxuries blinds a person to these lasting assets.
– Even when income is high, habitual indulgence devours it.Proverbs 27:20 notes, “Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and neither are the eyes of man”. Without restraint, more money only fuels more consumption.
summaryProverbs 21:17 draws a straight line between a heart devoted to pleasure and a life marked by loss. When delight in entertainment, luxury, wine, or oil governs our choices, resources drain away and lasting wealth—material or spiritual—eludes us. Wise believers enjoy God’s gifts with gratitude and moderation, stewarding their means for kingdom purposes rather than surrendering to the endless appetite of self-indulgence.
(17)
Wine and oil.--The accompaniments of a feast. The oil, or precious unguents, were poured over the head (comp.
Psalm 23:5). It was the excessive love and gratitude of the two Marys (
Luke 7:38;
John 12:3) which prompted them to anoint the Lord's feet. These perfumes were sometimes of great value, the "pound of ointment of spikenard
"(
John 12:3) was worth "more than three hundred pence" (10 12s. 6d.), the wages of a day labourer (
Matthew 20:2) for nearly a year.
Verse 17. -
He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man;qui diligit epulas, Vulgate; for feasts are chiefly, though not exclusively, intended. He shall become "a man of want" (
machesor) as
Proverbs 11:24.
He that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. "Wine and oil" were the usual adjuncts of banquets (
Psalm 23:5;
Psalm 104:15). Some unguents used for anointing honoured guests were very costly. The pound of spikenard expended by Mary of Bethany was worth more than three hundred pence - the wages of a labourer for nearly a whole year (see
John 12:3;
Matthew 20:2). Indulgence in such luxuries would be a token of prodigality and extravagance, which are the sure precursors of ruin; while, on the other hand, according to the trite proverb,
Magnum vectigal est parsimonia. That fulness of meat and luxurious habits tend to spiritual poverty and the loss of grace, need not be insisted on. Septuagint, "A man in want (
ἐνδεὴς) loveth mirth, loving wine and oil unto wealth (
εἰςπλοῦτον)." Some translate the last words, "in abundance," as if the meaning was that the poor endeavours to mitigate the severity of his lot by getting all the pleasure he can from creature comforts however procured. Others think that a negative has fallen out of the Greek, which should be, "not unto wealth,"
i.e. he shall not be enriched thereby.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
He who lovesאֹהֵ֣ב(’ō·hêḇ)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 157:To have affection fpleasureשִׂמְחָ֑ה(śim·ḥāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8057:Blithesomeness, gleewill become poor;מַ֭חְסוֹר(maḥ·sō·wr)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4270:A need, thing needed, povertythe one who lovesאֹהֵ֥ב(’ō·hêḇ)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 157:To have affection fwineיַֽיִן־(ya·yin-)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3196:Wine, intoxicationand oilוָ֝שֶׁ֗מֶן(wā·še·men)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 8081:Grease, liquid, richnesswill neverלֹ֣א(lō)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nobecome rich.יַעֲשִֽׁיר׃(ya·‘ă·šîr)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6238:To accumulate, chiefly, to grow, rich
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 21:17 He who loves pleasure shall be (Prov. Pro Pr) 
