Proverbs 25:17

French Vigouroux 1902 Bible

Retire ton pied de la maison de ton prochain, de peur qu'étant rassasié (de toi) il ne te haïsse.

What Does This Mean?

Proverbs 25:17 advises that you should not visit your neighbor too often or stay too long when you do visit, as it might make them tired of you and eventually lead to them hating you. This is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, focusing on practical advice for living a good life.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you kept going to your friend's house every day without stopping. Soon, they might not want you to come over anymore and might feel upset. This verse tells us to be mindful of how often we visit others so they always enjoy our company.

Historical Background

Proverbs 25 was likely compiled during the time of King Hezekiah in the 7th century BC. The book is a collection of wise sayings and instructions, often addressed to young people. It reflects the cultural values and social norms of ancient Israel, emphasizing respect and balance in relationships.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, this verse can be applied to how we use social media. For example, if you send your friend a lot of messages or posts daily, they might feel overwhelmed and start to avoid you. It's important to respect their boundaries and space.

Topics

• wisdom
• relationships
• boundaries
• respect
• neighbors
• social behavior

Related Verses

• Leviticus 19:18
• 1 Thessalonians 5:14
• Proverbs 27:6
• Matthew 7:12
• Romans 12:10

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to withdraw my foot from my neighbor's house?

It means to limit how often you visit your neighbor so you don’t become a burden and risk damaging your relationship.

Why would someone hate me if I visit too often?

Frequent and prolonged visits can lead to exhaustion and frustration, making your presence unwelcome over time.

How can this verse be relevant in the digital age?

The principle can be applied to online interactions, like texting or social media, where constant contact can overwhelm others.

Are there any exceptions to this rule?

While the general principle holds, close family relationships and emergencies may call for more frequent visits without causing weariness.