Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
Don't stare at wine when it's red and beautiful, when it has rich color in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly.
The writer is warning against being tempted by the appealing appearance of wine, which can lead to overindulgence.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, wine was a common part of daily life and celebrations, often symbolizing joy and abundance, but it was also viewed as a potential source of temptation and moral downfall. The Book of Proverbs, attributed to King Solomon, was written to impart wisdom for living rightly in a world full of pitfalls, including warnings about the dangers of excess. This verse specifically addresses the seductive appearance of wine, reflecting a cultural context where alcohol was widely available but required careful handling to avoid leading people into folly.
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