CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/20-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/20_Pro_20_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 20:1 - Wine is a Mocker" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/proverbs/20-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/proverbs/20-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/proverbs/">Proverbs</a> > <a href="/proverbs/20.htm">Chapter 20</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/proverbs/19-29.htm" title="Proverbs 19:29">◄</a> Proverbs 20:1 <a href="/proverbs/20-2.htm" title="Proverbs 20:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/20.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/20.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls. Those led astray by drink cannot be wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/20.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/20.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Wine <i>is</i> a mocker, strong drink <i>is</i> raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/20.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Wine <i>is</i> a mocker, Strong drink <i>is</i> a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, intoxicating drink a brawler, And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/20.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a riotous brawler; And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, beer is a brawler; whoever goes astray because of them is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, beer is a brawler, and whoever staggers because of them is not wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/20.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler; And whosoever erreth thereby is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />It isn't smart to get drunk! Drinking makes a fool of you and leads to fights. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/20.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler; and whosoever erreth thereby is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Wine [makes people] mock, liquor [makes them] noisy, and everyone under their influence is unwise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/20.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Drinking too much makes you loud and foolish. It's stupid to get drunk. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/20.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Wine causes mocking, and beer causes fights; everyone led astray by them lacks wisdom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/20.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker and strong drink is a brawler; whoever goes astray by them is not wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, and beer is a brawler. Whoever is led astray by them is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whoever is deceived by it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/20.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker and beer is a brawler. Whoever is led astray by them is not wise. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Wine [is] a scorner—strong drink [is] noisy, "" And any going astray in it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Wine is a scorner -- strong drink is noisy, And any going astray in it is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Wine is mocking, strong drink is noisy: and every one going astray by it will not be wise.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Wine is a luxurious thing, and drunkenness riotous: whosoever is delighted therewith shell not be wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />It is a luxurious thing, wine, and inebriation is tumultuous. Anyone who is delighted by this will not be wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/20.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Wine is arrogant, strong drink is riotous; none who are intoxicated by them are wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />WINE is grievous, drunkenness is shameful; and whosoever drinks excessively is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/20.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Wine is strong and drunkenness is disgraceful, and no one that is excessive in it is wise.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/20.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Wine is a mocker, strong drink is riotous; And whosoever reeleth thereby is not wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/20.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Wine is an intemperate thing, and strong drink full of violence: but every fool is entangled with them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/20-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=3924" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm">Wine is a Mocker</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3196.htm" title="3196: hay·yayn (Art:: N-ms) -- Wine. From an unused root meaning to effervesce; wine; by implication, intoxication.">Wine</a> <a href="/hebrew/3887.htm" title="3887: lêṣ (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- A primitive root; properly, to make mouths at, i.e. To scoff; hence to interpret, or intercede.">is a mocker,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7941.htm" title="7941: šê·ḵār (N-ms) -- Intoxicating drink, strong drink. From shakar; an intoxicant, i.e. Intensely alcoholic liquor.">strong drink</a> <a href="/hebrew/1993.htm" title="1993: hō·meh (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- A primitive root; to make a loud sound like Engl. hum); by implication, to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor.">is a brawler,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: wə·ḵāl (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">and whoever</a> <a href="/hebrew/7686.htm" title="7686: šō·ḡeh (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- A primitive root; to stray, usually to mistake, especially to transgress; by extension to reel, be enraptured.">is led astray</a> <a href="/hebrew/bōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- ">by them</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">is not</a> <a href="/hebrew/2449.htm" title="2449: yeḥ·kām (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To be wise. A primitive root, to be wise.">wise.</a> </span><span class="reftext">2</span>The terror of a king is like the roar of a lion; whoever provokes him forfeits his own life.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/5-18.htm">Ephesians 5:18</a></span><br />Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/5-11.htm">Isaiah 5:11-12</a></span><br />Woe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, who linger into the evening, to be inflamed by wine. / At their feasts are the lyre and harp, tambourines and flutes and wine. They disregard the actions of the LORD and fail to see the work of His hands.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/habakkuk/2-15.htm">Habakkuk 2:15</a></span><br />Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wineskin until they are drunk, in order to gaze at their nakedness!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/6-10.htm">1 Corinthians 6:10</a></span><br />nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/5-19.htm">Galatians 5:19-21</a></span><br />The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; / idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, / and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-3.htm">1 Peter 4:3</a></span><br />For you have spent enough time in the past carrying out the same desires as the Gentiles: living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and detestable idolatry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-13.htm">Romans 13:13</a></span><br />Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm">1 Timothy 3:3</a></span><br />not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/28-7.htm">Isaiah 28:7</a></span><br />These also stagger from wine and stumble from strong drink: Priests and prophets reel from strong drink and are befuddled by wine. They stumble because of strong drink, muddled in their visions and stumbling in their judgments.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hosea/4-11.htm">Hosea 4:11</a></span><br />to promiscuity, wine, and new wine, which take away understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/5-11.htm">1 Corinthians 5:11</a></span><br />But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/21-34.htm">Luke 21:34</a></span><br />But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-7.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:7</a></span><br />For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/23-29.htm">Proverbs 23:29-35</a></span><br />Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has needless wounds? Who has bloodshot eyes? / Those who linger over wine, who go to taste mixed drinks. / Do not gaze at wine while it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/joel/1-5.htm">Joel 1:5</a></span><br />Wake up, you drunkards, and weep; wail, all you drinkers of wine, because of the sweet wine, for it has been cut off from your mouth.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whoever is deceived thereby is not wise.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/14-22.htm">Astray</a> <a href="/judges/9-21.htm">Beer</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-29.htm">Blows</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Brawler</a> <a href="/psalms/78-36.htm">Deceived</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-26.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-17.htm">Erreth</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-22.htm">Error</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-29.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/revelation/17-2.htm">Intoxicated</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-21.htm">Led</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-28.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-12.htm">Mocker</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-13.htm">Noisy</a> <a href="/psalms/124-5.htm">Raging</a> <a href="/isaiah/24-20.htm">Reeleth</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-13.htm">Riotous</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-25.htm">Scorner</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-19.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-13.htm">Thereby</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-5.htm">Wine</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-25.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/28-10.htm">Astray</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-4.htm">Beer</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-30.htm">Blows</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm">Brawler</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-19.htm">Deceived</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-7.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/ezekiel/45-20.htm">Erreth</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-6.htm">Error</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-3.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/revelation/17-2.htm">Intoxicated</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-11.htm">Led</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-2.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-11.htm">Mocker</a> <a href="/isaiah/9-5.htm">Noisy</a> <a href="/isaiah/17-12.htm">Raging</a> <a href="/isaiah/24-20.htm">Reeleth</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-20.htm">Riotous</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-11.htm">Scorner</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-14.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-9.htm">Thereby</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-17.htm">Wine</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-18.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 20</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proper Living</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Wine is a mocker</b><br>In biblical times, wine was a common beverage, often consumed daily. However, its effects were well-known, and excessive consumption was warned against. The term "mocker" suggests that wine can lead to foolish behavior, causing one to act in ways that are shameful or embarrassing. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of wisdom versus folly, where wisdom is associated with self-control and folly with indulgence. The mockery here can be seen as the deceptive nature of wine, promising pleasure but often leading to disgrace. This is echoed in other scriptures, such as <a href="/ephesians/5-18.htm">Ephesians 5:18</a>, which advises against drunkenness, highlighting the loss of control and the potential for sin.<p><b>strong drink is a brawler</b><br>Strong drink, likely referring to beverages with higher alcohol content than wine, is described as a "brawler," indicating its potential to incite violence and conflict. In ancient cultures, strong drink was often used in feasts and celebrations, but it also had the potential to lead to aggressive behavior and disputes. This phrase warns of the social and relational consequences of overindulgence. The imagery of a "brawler" suggests that strong drink can lead to physical altercations and a breakdown of community harmony. This is consistent with the biblical emphasis on peace and unity, as seen in passages like <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Romans 14:19</a>, which encourages believers to pursue peace and mutual edification.<p><b>and whoever is led astray by them is not wise</b><br>The phrase "led astray" implies a departure from the path of wisdom and righteousness. In the biblical context, wisdom is highly valued, often equated with the fear of the Lord and adherence to His commandments. Being "led astray" by wine and strong drink suggests a surrender to temptation and a failure to exercise discernment and self-control. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that contrasts the wise, who follow God's ways, with the foolish, who are swayed by worldly desires. <a href="/proverbs/23-29.htm">Proverbs 23:29-35</a> further elaborates on the dangers of alcohol, painting a vivid picture of its potential to lead one away from wisdom and into a life of regret and sorrow.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and godly living are foundational to the book of Proverbs.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/ancient_israel.htm">Ancient Israel</a></b><br>The cultural and historical context of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where wine and strong drink were common. Understanding the societal norms of this time helps us grasp the significance of Solomon's warnings.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_literature.htm">Wisdom Literature</a></b><br>Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes practical teachings on how to live a life that honors God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_deceptive_nature_of_alcohol.htm">The Deceptive Nature of Alcohol</a></b><br>Wine and strong drink can deceive and lead one astray, promising pleasure but often resulting in poor judgment and regret.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_wisdom.htm">The Importance of Wisdom</a></b><br>Being led astray by alcohol is contrasted with wisdom. A wise person exercises self-control and discernment, avoiding situations that could lead to sin.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guarding_against_temptation.htm">Guarding Against Temptation</a></b><br>Believers are called to be vigilant and avoid situations where they might be tempted to overindulge in alcohol.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_fulfillment_in_god.htm">Seeking Fulfillment in God</a></b><br>True satisfaction and joy come from a relationship with God, not from temporary pleasures like alcohol.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_and_accountability.htm">Community and Accountability</a></b><br>Engaging in a community of believers provides support and accountability, helping individuals make wise choices regarding alcohol.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 20</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_proverbs_20_1_align_with_alcohol_research.htm">Proverbs 20:1 labels wine as deceptive—how does this align with modern research suggesting moderate alcohol consumption can be beneficial? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_the_meaning_of_proverbs_20_1.htm">What is the meaning of Proverbs 20:1?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_marrying_an_alcoholic.htm">What does the Bible say about marrying an alcoholic?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_was_the_temperance_movement's_goal.htm">What was the goal of the Temperance Movement?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/20.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div><span class= "bld">XX.</span><p>(1) <span class= "bld">Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging--</span><span class= "ital">i.e., </span>producing these effects in those who subject themselves to their power.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/20.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Wine is a mocker;</span> or, scorner, the word (<span class="accented">luts</span>) being taken up from the last chapter. The liquor is, as it were, personified, as doing what men do under its influence. Thus inebriated persons scoff at what is holy, reject reproof, ridicule all that is serious. Septuagint, <span class="greek">Ἀκόλαστον οϊνος</span>, "Wine is an undisciplined thing;" Vulgate, <span class="accented">Luxuriosa res, vinum. <span class="cmt_word"></span>Strong drink is raging;</span> a brawler, Revised Version. <span class="accented">Shekar</span>, <span class="greek">σίκερα</span> (<a href="/luke/1-15.htm">Luke 1:15</a>), is most frequently employed of any intoxicating drink not made from grapes, <span class="accented">e.g.</span> palm wine, mead, etc. The inordinate use of this renders men noisy and boisterous, no longer masters of themselves or restrained by the laws of morality or decency. Septuagint, <span class="greek">Υβιστικὸν μέθη</span>, "Drunkenness is insolent." Theognis has some sensible lines on this matter ('Parch.,' 479) - <p><span class="greek">Ος δ α}ν ὑπερβάλλῃ πόσιος μὲτρον οὐκέτι</span><br /><span class="greek">Τῆς αὐτοῦ γλώσσης καρτερὸς οὐδὲ νόου</span><br /><span class="greek">Μυθεῖται δ ἀπάλαμνα τὰ νήφοσι γίγνεται αἰσχρά</span><br /><span class="greek">Αἰδεῖται δ ἕρδων οὐδὲν ὅταν μεθύῃ</span><br /><span class="greek">Τὸ πρὶν ἐὼν σώφρων τότε νήπιος</span> <span class="cmt_word">Whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise</span>. No one who reels under the influence of, is overpowered by, wine is wise (<a href="/isaiah/28-7.htm">Isaiah 28:7</a>). Septuagint, "Every fool is involved in such." Says a Latin adage - <p><span class="foreign">"Ense cadunt multi, perimit sed crapula plures."</span> More are drowned in the wine cup than in the ocean, say the Germans (comp. <a href="/proverbs/23-29.htm">Proverbs 23:29</a>, etc.; <a href="/ephesians/5-18.htm">Ephesians 5:18</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/20-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Wine</span><br /><span class="heb">הַ֭יַּין‪‬</span> <span class="translit">(hay·yayn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3196.htm">Strong's 3196: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wine, intoxication</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is a mocker,</span><br /><span class="heb">לֵ֣ץ</span> <span class="translit">(lêṣ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3887.htm">Strong's 3887: </a> </span><span class="str2">Ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker</span><br /><br /><span class="word">strong drink</span><br /><span class="heb">שֵׁכָ֑ר</span> <span class="translit">(šê·ḵār)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7941.htm">Strong's 7941: </a> </span><span class="str2">An intoxicant, intensely alcoholic liquor</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is a brawler,</span><br /><span class="heb">הֹמֶ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(hō·meh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1993.htm">Strong's 1993: </a> </span><span class="str2">To make a, loud sound, commotion, tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and whoever</span><br /><span class="heb">וְכָל־</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḵāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is led astray</span><br /><span class="heb">שֹׁ֥גֶה</span> <span class="translit">(šō·ḡeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7686.htm">Strong's 7686: </a> </span><span class="str2">To stray, to mistake, to transgress, to reel, be enraptured</span><br /><br /><span class="word">by them</span><br /><span class="heb">בּ֝֗וֹ</span> <span class="translit">(bōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> </span><span class="str2"></span><br /><br /><span class="word">is not</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֣א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wise.</span><br /><span class="heb">יֶחְכָּֽם׃</span> <span class="translit">(yeḥ·kām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2449.htm">Strong's 2449: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be wise</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proverbs 20:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/20-1.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker and beer (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/19-29.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 19:29"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 19:29" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/20-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 20:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 20:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>