Give strong drink to one who is perishingThis phrase suggests a context of providing comfort or relief to those who are in distress or facing death. In ancient times, strong drink, often a fermented beverage, was used for medicinal purposes or to ease pain. The idea of giving strong drink to someone who is perishing aligns with the cultural practices of using alcohol as a form of palliative care. This can be seen in other parts of Scripture, such as when wine was offered to Jesus on the cross (
Mark 15:23) to ease His suffering, though He refused it. Theologically, this phrase can be seen as an acknowledgment of human compassion and mercy, providing temporary relief to those in dire situations.
and wine to the bitter in soul
Wine, in biblical times, was a common beverage and often symbolized joy and celebration. However, in this context, it is given to those who are "bitter in soul," indicating deep emotional distress or sorrow. This phrase suggests that wine can serve as a temporary solace for those experiencing profound grief or hardship. The cultural context of the time recognized wine as a means to lift spirits and provide a momentary escape from the burdens of life. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that acknowledges human suffering and the need for comfort, as seen in passages likePsalm 104:15, which speaks of wine gladdening the heart. Theologically, it reflects the understanding that while earthly comforts are temporary, they can be a means of grace in times of need.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The PerishingThis refers to individuals who are in a state of physical decline or facing imminent death. In the context of ancient times, this could include those suffering from terminal illnesses or severe injuries.
2.
The Bitter in SoulThis describes individuals experiencing deep emotional distress or sorrow. The Hebrew word used here, (marat nephesh), conveys a sense of profound bitterness or anguish.
3.
Strong Drink and WineThese are alcoholic beverages that were commonly used in ancient times for medicinal purposes and to provide temporary relief from pain or distress.
Teaching Points
Compassionate CareThe verse suggests a compassionate response to those who are suffering, whether physically or emotionally. It encourages us to consider how we can provide comfort and relief to those in distress.
Discernment in UseWhile the verse acknowledges the use of strong drink for relief, it also implies the need for discernment. Believers should be cautious about the potential for misuse and ensure that their actions align with biblical principles.
Understanding ContextRecognize the cultural and historical context of the verse. In ancient times, strong drink was one of the few available means to alleviate pain and suffering. Today, we have more options, but the principle of providing comfort remains relevant.
Emotional SupportThe mention of the "bitter in soul" highlights the importance of emotional support. As Christians, we are called to bear one another's burdens and offer encouragement to those who are struggling.
Balance and ModerationThe Bible consistently teaches the importance of balance and moderation. This verse should not be used to justify excessive drinking but rather to emphasize the appropriate use of resources to aid those in need.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:6?
2.How does Proverbs 31:6 guide us in showing compassion to the suffering?
3.What does "give strong drink" mean in the context of Proverbs 31:6?
4.How can Proverbs 31:6 be applied to modern-day caregiving practices?
5.How does Proverbs 31:6 connect with Jesus' teachings on helping the needy?
6.In what ways can Proverbs 31:6 influence our approach to social justice issues?
7.What does Proverbs 31:6 mean by "Give strong drink to one who is perishing"?
8.How should Proverbs 31:6 be interpreted in the context of Christian compassion?
9.Does Proverbs 31:6 condone alcohol consumption for those in distress?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 31?
11.What is the Bible's stance on alcohol consumption?
12.What is the meaning of Proverbs 20:1?
13.Proverbs 20:1 labels wine as deceptive--how does this align with modern research suggesting moderate alcohol consumption can be beneficial?
14.Numbers 6:2-3 -- Why forbid all grape products without providing a clear historical or scientific rationale?What Does Proverbs 31:6 Mean
Give strong drink“Give strong drink to one who is perishing…” (Proverbs 31:6a)
• The passage immediately follows the charge that rulers avoid wine (Proverbs 31:4-5). The contrast spotlights that intoxicating drink belongs, not to leaders who must judge righteously, but to those whose earthly course is ending.
• Scripture elsewhere allows limited medicinal use of alcohol for relief: “Give wine to the weary” (2 Samuel 16:2-3); “wine makes man’s heart glad” (Psalm 104:15).
• While God forbids drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18), He shows compassion on the suffering, permitting a palliative aid when life is ebbing away (cf.Mark 15:23, where they offered Jesus wine mixed with myrrh).
to one who is perishing“…to one who is perishing…” (Proverbs 31:6a)
• The phrase pictures someone in the final throes of life—terminal, hopeless in earthly terms (Job 29:13;Isaiah 38:12).
• Even as the body fails, Scripture points to an eternal hope for those who trust the Lord (John 11:25-26), yet the verse addresses the temporal mercy of easing pain.
• Practically, it reminds caregivers to act with tenderness, not withholding legitimate relief from the dying (James 2:15-16).
and wine“…and wine…” (Proverbs 31:6b)
• Wine is distinguished from the stronger distilled drink just mentioned, signaling a slightly gentler comfort.
• Timothy received similar advice: “Use a little wine because of your stomach” (1 Timothy 5:23).
• The gift of wine, rightly used, reflects God’s provision within creation, yet always within self-controlled boundaries (Proverbs 23:29-32).
to the bitter in soul“…to the bitter in soul.” (Proverbs 31:6b)
• “Bitter in soul” describes deep emotional anguish—Hannah’s grief (1 Samuel 1:10) or Job’s lament (Job 3:20).
• The verse recognizes that profound sorrow, like physical agony, may call for compassionate alleviation.
• Still, Scripture urges that true consolation rests ultimately in the Lord (Psalm 34:18;2 Corinthians 1:3-4). The temporary relief of wine can never replace the lasting comfort found in God’s presence.
summaryProverbs 31:6 contrasts the responsibility of sober leadership with the merciful concession of easing the dying and deeply distressed. The verse neither endorses drunkenness nor trivializes sorrow; it simply acknowledges that physical and emotional pain sometimes warrant temporary relief. Throughout, God’s heart of compassion is in view, even as He calls His people to exercise discernment, self-control, and ultimate reliance on Him.
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Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish.--For this is not waste, but an advantageous use of God's gift. (Comp. St. Paul's advice,
1Timothy 5:23.) It was out of a merciful remembrance of this passage that the pious ladies of Jerusalem used to provide a medicated drink for criminals condemned to be crucified, in order to deaden their pain. This was offered to our Lord (
Matthew 27:34), but He would not drink it, as He wished to keep His mind clear to the last, and was willing to drink to the dregs the "cup which His Father had given Him."
Verse 6. - There are cases where strong drink may be properly administered.
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish (
Job 29:13;
Job 31:19). As a restorative, a cordial, or a medicine, wine may he advantageously used; it has a place in the providential economy of God. "Use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities," was St. Paul's advice to Timothy (
1 Timothy 5:23). It is supposed to have been in consideration of the injunction in the text that the ladies of Jerusalem provided for criminals on their way to the place of execution a drink of medicated wine, which might deaden the pain of suffering. This was the draught rejected by Christ, who willed to taste the full bitterness of death (
Matthew 27:34;
Mark 15:23). The Septuagint has, "to those that are in sorrow;" so the Vulgate,
maerentibus, but this makes the two clauses tautological.
Wine unto those that be of heavy hearts (
Job 3:20). "Wine," says the psalmist, "maketh glad the heart of man" (
Psalm 104:15). Says Homer, 'Iliad,' 6:261 -
"Great is the strength
Which generous wine imparts to wearied men." Wine, says St. Chrysostom ('Hom. in Ephes.,' 19), "has been given us for cheerfulness, not for drunkenness. Wouldest thou know where wine is good? Hear what the Scripture saith, 'Give wine to them, etc. And justly, because it can mitigate asperity and gloominess, and drive away clouds from the brow" (comp. Ecclus. 34 [31]:25, etc.).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Giveתְּנוּ־(tə·nū-)Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 5414:To give, put, setstrong drinkשֵׁכָ֣ר(šê·ḵār)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7941:An intoxicant, intensely alcoholic liquorto one who is perishing,לְאוֹבֵ֑ד(lə·’ō·w·ḇêḏ)Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 6:To wander away, lose oneself, to perishand wineוְ֝יַיִן(wə·ya·yin)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3196:Wine, intoxicationto the bitterלְמָ֣רֵי(lə·mā·rê)Preposition-l | Adjective - masculine plural construct
Strong's 4751:Bitter, bitterness, bitterlyin soul.נָֽפֶשׁ׃(nā·p̄eš)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 5315:A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:6 Give strong drink to him who (Prov. Pro Pr) 
