Definition: Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it [is] for his life.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and wise verse from Proverbs 7:23. It’s a really powerful warning about how we treat our time and resources. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that wastefulness or reckless behavior will have serious consequences. It’s about recognizing that your time, energy, and possessions are precious and shouldn't be used carelessly. Let's unpack the parts: “Till a dart strike through his liver…” – This is a dramatic image. It suggests a painful, immediate and devastating loss. A dart hitting your liver would be incredibly serious and cause significant harm. It symbolizes something that will quickly ruin you. “…as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it [is] for his life.” – This is the crucial part. It compares a person to a bird trying to catch a trap. “A bird hasteth”: This means the person is rushing about, acting without thought or care. They're driven by impulse and lack foresight. “…knoweth not that it [is] for his life.” – This is the key message. The bird doesn’t realize its actions are dangerous. It's so focused on catching something else (the trap) that it doesn't understand the potential consequences of its behavior. So, what does this mean practically? It means: Don't waste your time: Focus on things that truly matter and lead to good outcomes. Don’t be reckless: Avoid impulsive decisions or actions without considering the long-term impact. Value your resources: Don’t treat your time, money, relationships, or possessions as expendable. In a nutshell, the verse is a call for wisdom, prudence, and respect – to use your time wisely and not squander it on things that could harm you. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Proverbs 7? Discuss how this verse applies to specific situations in your life?