What is the meaning of Proverbs 23:30?

Those who linger over wine

Proverbs 23:30 opens by focusing on people who remain with their wine instead of walking away.

• Lingering implies prolonged engagement—time, attention, and affection given over to alcohol instead of to God and responsible living (Proverbs 20:1; Ephesians 5:18).

• It hints at a slow drift: one cup becomes two, an evening pastime becomes a habitual refuge (Proverbs 23:31–32).

• Scripture presents wine as a gift that can gladden the heart (Psalm 104:15), yet it repeatedly warns that when pleasure turns to preoccupation, danger follows (1 Corinthians 6:12).

• The verse confronts motives—why stay so long? Often it is to dull pain, chase excitement, or avoid responsibility; none of these satisfy compared with the Spirit-filled life (John 10:10).

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who go to taste mixed drinks

The second phrase pictures an active pursuit: traveling to sample something stronger.

• “Go to” shows intentionality; the person isn’t accidentally exposed but seeks out the next level of stimulation (Isaiah 5:11).

• “Mixed drinks” in biblical times were often fortified or spiced to increase potency, symbolizing escalation (Habakkuk 2:15).

• Scripture links such chasing of excess with blurred judgment, poverty, and sorrow (Proverbs 23:33-35; 1 Peter 4:3-4).

• The verse therefore warns against a heart that keeps pushing boundaries instead of finding contentment and self-control in Christ (Galatians 5:22-23).

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summary

Proverbs 23:30 exposes two progressive steps toward drunkenness: lingering where wine is served and deliberately pursuing stronger drink. Both reveal a heart turning from God’s wisdom to self-indulgence, inviting the bitter harvest detailed in the verses that follow. The call is clear—walk away early, seek the Spirit’s fullness, and let no pleasure master you.