Proverbs 25:28
A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The imagery here isn't just about being unwalled, but a city that was broken down and then left without walls. This points to a self-inflicted vulnerability, a state of ruin that leaves one completely exposed and defenseless against any temptation or spiritual attack.
This proverb comes at the end of a section of Proverbs in chapter 25 that contains collected sayings, many attributed to King Solomon. It follows other warnings about boasting, gossip, and dealing with adversaries, all emphasizing the importance of wisdom and self-restraint in daily life. The verse then serves as a powerful conclusion, comparing a person's inner state to the physical vulnerability of a city.
Understand the original words
atsarah · Hebrew Noun
The quality of restraint, specifically the ability to govern one's own spirit, passions, and impulses. It is a fundamental fruit of wisdom and godliness.
This passage describes the fruit of the Spirit, with self-control (temperance) being the last and ultimate demonstration of God's work within us, highlighting that true control comes from Him, not just our own efforts.
1 Corinthians 6:12Paul speaks of not being dominated by anything, showing that a lack of self-mastery, like an unprotected city, leaves one vulnerable to sin's power and control.
2 Peter 1:5-7This passage outlines a progression of godly virtues that build upon one another, with self-control forming the foundation for further spiritual growth and protection against spiritual ruin.
Proverbs 4:23This verse emphasizes guarding one's heart above all else, echoing the sentiment of Proverbs 25:28 by showing that internal defense is crucial for a protected life.
Luke 14:28-30Jesus' parable about counting the cost of discipleship highlights the necessity of careful planning and self-restraint before undertaking a significant task, much like a city building its walls before facing an enemy.
gillProverbs 25:28: "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."
He that hath no rule over his own spirit,.... His affections and passions, puts no restraint, unto them, as the word signifies; no guard against them, no fence about them, to curb his curiosity, to check his pride and vanity, to restrain his wrath and anger and revenge, and keep within due bounds his ambition and itch of vainglory; is like a city that broken down and without walls;…
jfbProverbs 25:28: "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."
- Such are exposed to the incursions of evil thoughts and successful temptations.
The imagery here isn't just about being unwalled, but a city that was broken down and then left without walls. This points to a self-inflicted vulnerability, a state of ruin that leaves one completely exposed and defenseless against any temptation or spiritual attack.
This proverb comes at the end of a section of Proverbs in chapter 25 that contains collected sayings, many attributed to King Solomon. It follows other warnings about boasting, gossip, and dealing with adversaries, all emphasizing the importance of wisdom and self-restraint in daily life. The verse then serves as a powerful conclusion, comparing a person's inner state to the physical vulnerability of a city.
This proverb comes at the end of a section of Proverbs in chapter 25 that contains collected sayings, many attributed to King Solomon. It follows other warnings about boasting, gossip, and dealing with adversaries, all emphasizing the importance of wisdom and self-restraint in daily life. The verse then serves as a powerful conclusion, comparing a person's inner state to the physical vulnerability of a city.
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"A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls." — The imagery here isn't just about being unwalled, but a city that was broken down and then left without walls. This points to a self-inflicted vulnerability, a state of ruin that leaves one com…
