For a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with meat;
A servant who becomes a ruler, and a fool who has plenty of food
The writer is describing situations where people who lack wisdom or maturity suddenly gain power or abundance, which can lead to trouble.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, society was highly structured with strict social hierarchies, where servants were typically born into subservience and not prepared for positions of authority. This proverb from Agur's collection in the Book of Proverbs warns about the potential chaos that arises when such natural orders are disrupted, as seen in the broader context of listing things that unsettle the earth. It reflects the cultural emphasis on wisdom and experience as foundational for leadership to maintain stability and order.
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