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Proverbs 17:1

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

It's better to have just a small piece of dry bread with peace and quiet than to live in a house full of rich food where there's constant fighting and conflict.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse is saying that peace in the home is worth more than wealth and abundance if that wealth comes with constant arguing and tension.

📚 Historical Context

In ancient Israel, sacrifices were offerings made to God, often part of family or community feasts that symbolized devotion and thanksgiving, reflecting a culture where religious practices were intertwined with daily life. However, this proverb from the Wisdom Literature, attributed to King Solomon, highlights the pitfalls of wealth and religious excess when they lead to family strife, emphasizing that true value lies in simplicity and harmony. This teaching draws from a broader biblical tradition that prioritizes moral and relational integrity over material abundance.

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