Proverbs 31:4
What does Proverbs 31:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 31:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 31:4 means
This verse delivers a direct and strong prohibition against kings and princes indulging in wine and strong drink. The mother impresses upon Lemuel that such intoxicating beverages are utterly unsuitable for those in leadership positions. Her repeated emphasis, "It is not for kings...it is not for kings," underscores the absolute nature of this prohibition, highlighting the unique responsibilities that fall upon those who govern. Kings must maintain sobriety and clear judgment, which alcohol impairs.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; Nor for princes to say, Where is strong drink?
KJV
King James Version · 1611It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; Nor for princes to say, Where is strong drink?
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to take wine, or for rulers to say, Where is strong drink?
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Not for kings, O Lemuel, Not for kings, to drink wine, And for princes a desire of strong drink.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Give not to kings, O Lamuel, give not wine to kings: because there is no secret where drunkenness reigneth:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers [to say], Where is the strong drink?
Context
Following the warning against sexual immorality in verse 3, this verse pivots to another critical danger for a king: alcohol. It states the prohibition clearly and emphatically, setting the stage for the explanation of *why* this prohibition is so vital for leaders in the next verse. This continues the mother's practical guidance for righteous governance.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Esther 3:15
The posts went forth in haste by the king’s commandment, and the decree was given out in Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city of Shushan was perplexed.
- Leviticus 10:9
Drink no wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tent of meeting, that ye die not: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations:
- Habakkuk 2:5
Yea, moreover, wine is treacherous, a haughty man, that keepeth not at home; who enlargeth his desire as Sheol, and he is as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth unto him all nations, and heapeth unto him all peoples.
- Hosea 7:3
They make the king glad with their wickedness, and the princes with their lies.
- Isaiah 5:22
Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink;
- 1 Kings 20:16
And they went out at noon. But Ben-hadad was drinking himself drunk in the pavilions, he and the kings, the thirty and two kings that helped him.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Proverbs 31
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Proverbs 31.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Body Image
Our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, and these scriptures help us to see ourselves through His eyes.
Topic
Bible Verses About Courtship
Courtship, a journey of intentional relationship-building, is a concept beautifully illuminated by the wisdom found in God's Word.
Topic
Bible Verses About Dating
Dating, while not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, can be guided by biblical principles for wise and God-honoring relationships
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for Praying for Your Spouse
Verses to pray over the person you said 'yes' to.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You Can't Sleep Because of Anxious Thoughts
Verses to read in bed when your mind won't stop.