.31:1-9.

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A mother’s advice to a king (Prov 31:1-9)

King Lemuel was probably a non-Israelite from a neighbouring nation, but his mother appears to have been a God-fearing woman who vowed her son to God (Prov 31:1-2).

The main desire of some kings was to get themselves as much pleasure as possible, chiefly through women and wine.

Lemuel is warned that such interests distract a king from his proper duties and result in lawlessness and injustice (Prov 31:3-5).

Strong drink deadens pain and dulls the mind. Therefore, among the people who seek after it are those whose distress is so great that life seems to have no more hope for them.

The king should not seek after it, for he must have a clear mind at all times, so that he can judge with justice and defend the downtrodden (Prov 31:6-9).