Proverbs 23:21 net — because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished, and drowsiness clothes them with rags.

NET Bible

"because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished, and drowsiness clothes them with rags."

— Proverbs 23:21, NET Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 23:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 23 — Context

18

For surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.

19

Listen, my child, and be wise, and guide your heart on the right way.

20

Do not spend time among drunkards, among those who eat too much meat,

21

because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished, and drowsiness clothes them with rags.

22

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

23

Acquire truth and do not sell it– wisdom, and discipline, and understanding.

24

The father of a righteous person will rejoice greatly; whoever fathers a wise child will have joy in him.

Proverbs 23:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 23:21 say?
Proverbs 23:21 in the NET Bible reads: “because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished, and drowsiness clothes them with rags.”
Where is Proverbs 23:21 in the Bible?
Proverbs 23:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 23, verse 21.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 23:21.
What translation should I read Proverbs 23:21 in?
Proverbs 23:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 23:21?
Proverbs 23:21 reads (NET): “because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished, and drowsiness clothes them with rags.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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