Proverbs 17:1 - Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 17:1

What does "Proverbs 17:1" mean?


This verse from Proverbs highlights the value of peace and tranquility over material abundance or pleasurable experiences that are accompanied by conflict. Let's break it down:

"Better is a dry morsel": This refers to a very small, simple, and perhaps unappetizing piece of food. It symbolizes having basic necessities but not luxury.

"with quietness": This emphasizes the presence of peace, calm, and lack of conflict.

"than a house full of feasting": This describes a situation of abundance, celebration, and perhaps even extravagance. There is plenty of food and likely social activity.

"with strife": This denotes conflict, disagreement, argument, and tension.

The overall meaning is that:

It's more desirable to have a simple life, even with limited resources, if it comes with peace and harmony than to live in a luxurious or abundant environment filled with constant arguments and discord. The verse emphasizes that inner peace and a tranquil atmosphere are more valuable than material wealth or extravagant experiences when those experiences come at the cost of relational harmony. It suggests that happiness and well-being are not solely determined by external circumstances but are deeply influenced by the quality of our relationships and the overall emotional climate of our surroundings.

In other words, it's better to have a peaceful, humble existence than a lavish and chaotic one.

What categories does "Proverbs 17:1" have?