She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Wisdom hasn't just prepared a meal; she's intentionally tempered it. The "mingled wine" suggests it's been made palatable and even more potent, hinting that wisdom's nourishment is perfectly balanced for refreshment and spiritual strength. This isn't just food; it's a thoughtfully prepared feast designed to be deeply satisfying.
She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Wisdom, personified as a gracious host, has diligently prepared a lavish feast to invite guests to her home. This elaborate preparation involves slaughtering animals, mixing wine (likely with spices for flavor or water for refreshment), and arranging everything on the table, all in anticipation of her callers. This scene immediately follows Wisdom's calling out and the contrast with Folly's tempting, destructive invitation.
Imagine a feast so grand, the host has personally prepared every single detail. Wisdom isn't just offering a snack; she's throwing a banquet!
The imagery in Proverbs 9:2 paints a picture of incredible generosity and careful preparation. 'She has slaughtered her beasts' isn't just about cooking meat; it signifies the ultimate sacrifice and provision. This calls to mind the profound truth that God, through Wisdom (who is ultimately Christ in Christian understanding), has made the most complete provision for us.
Why 'mix' the wine? It wasn't just about diluting it, but about enhancing its flavor and making it perfect. Wisdom's invitation is designed for our deepest enjoyment.
The details of preparing the wine and setting the table are not accidental. They speak to a deliberate crafting of an experience meant to be both nourishing and delightful.
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Understand the original words
tabach · Hebrew Verb
Used here in the context of preparing a feast, slaughtering animals represents the provision of sustenance and life, often pointing toward the costliness and hospitality of the host.
This parable directly parallels Wisdom's feast, showing a king sending out invitations after his animals are slaughtered, highlighting the abundant provision made for a grand celebration.
Isaiah 5:22This passage speaks of those who are skilled at mixing wine, often for intoxicating purposes, which contrasts with Wisdom's properly prepared, life-giving invitation.
Psalm 23:5The imagery of God preparing a table before enemies in this Psalm echoes the generosity and hospitality of Wisdom, who also sets a table for her guests.
1 Corinthians 10:16The cup of blessing that believers share in this verse refers to the Lord's Supper, a spiritual feast prepared by Christ that nourishes and strengthens believers, much like Wisdom's meal.
Revelation 19:9The call to the wedding feast of the Lamb in Revelation points to the ultimate fulfillment of all God's prepared provisions and celebrations for His people.
bensonProverbs 9:2: "She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table."
Proverbs 9:2 . She hath killed her beasts — That is, made provision for her guests: namely, instruction in things the most important, satisfying, improving, and consolatory truths, declarations, and promises; refreshing, cheering, and exhilarating discoveries and communications. If applied to the church of Christ, it signifies the ordinances and means of edification appointed therein, with…
pulpitProverbs 9:2: "She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table."
Verse 2. - She hath killed her beasts. So in the parable of the marriage of the king's son (Matthew 22, which is parallel to the present), the king sends his servants to notify the guests that the oxen and fatlings are killed, and all things are ready. Wisdom has stores of nourishment for understanding and affection; and Christ has offered himself as a Victim in our behalf, and now makes bo…
Wisdom hasn't just prepared a meal; she's intentionally tempered it. The "mingled wine" suggests it's been made palatable and even more potent, hinting that wisdom's nourishment is perfectly balanced for refreshment and spiritual strength. This isn't just food; it's a thoughtfully prepared feast designed to be deeply satisfying.
Wisdom, personified as a gracious host, has diligently prepared a lavish feast to invite guests to her home. This elaborate preparation involves slaughtering animals, mixing wine (likely with spices for flavor or water for refreshment), and arranging everything on the table, all in anticipation of her callers. This scene immediately follows Wisdom's calling out and the contrast with Folly's tempting, destructive invitation.
Wisdom, personified as a gracious host, has diligently prepared a lavish feast to invite guests to her home. This elaborate preparation involves slaughtering animals, mixing wine (likely with spices for flavor or water for refreshment), and arranging everything on the table, all in anticipation of her callers. This scene immediately follows Wisdom's calling out and the contrast with Folly's tempting, destructive invitation.
"She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table." — Wisdom hasn't just prepared a meal; she's intentionally tempered it. The "mingled wine" suggests it's been made palatable and even more potent, hinting that wisdom's nourishment is perfectly balanc…
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Last reviewed October 2026