It is not for kings, Lemuel—not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to ask, ‘Where is the strong drink?’
Note. The Hebrew text is written “or” (o); the Masoretic tradition directs that it be read “where?” (ei). With what is written, the line would say “nor strong drink for rulers.” This translation follows what is read.
In context
2“What, my son? What, son of my womb? What, son of my vows? 3Do not give your strength to women, or your ways to those who wipe out kings. 4It is not for kings, Lemuel—not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to ask, ‘Where is the strong drink?’ 5or he will drink and forget what has been decreed and twist the justice due to all the afflicted. 6Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those who are bitter in soul.
