KJV ORIGINAL
It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
It is not right for kings, O Lemuel—it is not right for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to drink strong alcohol.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse teaches that leaders should avoid alcohol because they need clear judgment to rule wisely and justly.
📚 Historical Context
This is part of advice given to King Lemuel by his mother, likely a queen mother instructing her son about responsible leadership. In ancient times, rulers had absolute power over life and death decisions, making clear judgment essential. Wine and strong drink could impair a leader's ability to make fair decisions and administer justice properly.
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