Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, "bread of deceit" is a metaphorical expression that refers to wealth or gain acquired through dishonest or unethical means. This concept is rooted in the moral teachings of the Bible, which consistently emphasize integrity, honesty, and righteousness in all aspects of life, including economic transactions and personal conduct.The phrase "bread of deceit" is notably found in Proverbs 20:17, which states, "Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man, but later his mouth is full of gravel" . This proverb highlights the temporary satisfaction that may come from deceitful gain, contrasting it with the eventual consequences of such actions. The imagery of gravel in the mouth suggests discomfort, regret, and the ultimate futility of pursuing wealth through dishonest means. The Bible frequently warns against the pursuit of unlawful gain, emphasizing that such actions are contrary to God's commandments and detrimental to one's spiritual well-being. In Proverbs 11:1, it is written, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight" . This verse underscores the importance of fairness and honesty in business dealings, reflecting God's desire for justice and integrity. The New Testament also addresses the issue of deceitful gain. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10, the apostle Paul warns, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" . Here, the focus is on the dangers of covetousness and the moral pitfalls associated with prioritizing wealth over righteousness. The concept of "bread of deceit" serves as a cautionary reminder of the spiritual and ethical implications of pursuing wealth through dishonest means. It calls believers to reflect on their motivations and actions, urging them to seek contentment and provision through honest labor and trust in God's providence. The Bible consistently teaches that true fulfillment and peace come not from material wealth, but from a life lived in accordance with God's will and principles. In summary, the "bread of deceit" symbolizes the fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying nature of wealth obtained through unethical practices. The biblical narrative encourages individuals to pursue integrity and righteousness, trusting that God will provide for their needs in a manner that honors Him and upholds His standards of justice and truth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 20:17Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Letter cxxx. (AD 412. ) Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... The Testament of Levi Concerning the Priesthood and Arrogance. A Preservative against Unsettled Notions, and Want of Principles ... Book I. Book Three the Story of his Student Days in Carthage, his ... Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels. Homilies on the Gospel of John. Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects. Of the Lord's Supper, and the Benefits Conferred by It. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it speaks of the breaking of bread? | GotQuestions.org Bread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bread in Times of Scarcity, Sold by Weight Bread was Baked: On Coals of Fire Bread with Water, the Food of Prisons Bread: (Eating Without Scarceness) of Plenty Bread: (Fulness of) of Abundance Bread: (Of Adversity) Heavy Affliction Bread: (Of Deceit) Unlawful Gain Bread: (Of Wickedness) Oppression Bread: (Partaking of) Communion of Saints Bread: (Seeking of Begging) Extreme Poverty Bread: (Want of) Extreme Poverty Bread: (When Broken) the Death of Christ Bread: Called the Staff of Life Bread: Crumb of, Used to Wipe the Fingers, Thrown Under the Table Bread: First Fruit of, offered to God Bread: How Prepared: Baked in Ovens Bread: How Prepared: Cracknels Bread: How Prepared: Made Into Loaves Bread: How Prepared: Mixed With Oil Bread: How Prepared: On Coals of Dung Bread: How Prepared: On Hearths Bread: Kinds of Bread of Affliction Bread: Kinds of Leavened (Made With Yeast) Bread: Kinds of Unleavened (Made Without Yeast) Bread: Made of Manna (In the Wilderness) Bread: Multitudes Miraculously Fed by Christ With Bread: Nutritious and Strengthening Bread: Offered With Sacrifices Bread: Often Given As a Present Bread: Often Put for the Whole Substance of Man Bread: Ordinary, Called Common Bread Bread: Placed on Table of Shew Bread Bread: Plenty of, Promised to the Obedient Bread: Sacred, Called Hallowed Bread Bread: Scarceness of, Sent As a Punishment Bread: Served Round After Funerals Bread: Symbolical of the Body of Christ Bread: The Principal Food Used by the Ancients Bread: Troughs Used for Kneading Bread: when Old, Dry and Mouldy Related Terms |