Health and Stewardship

What Does the Bible Say About Overeating and Gluttony?

The Bible warns against gluttony as a lack of self-control that can harm both body and character, encouraging moderation and self-discipline as expressions of honoring God with the body.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Biblical explanation

Proverbs advises putting “a knife to thy throat” figuratively, meaning exercising strong self-restraint, when facing food that tempts toward excess (), and warns that “the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty” due to lack of self-discipline (). Paul describes some as having “their god” as their appetite, whose focus is on earthly things rather than spiritual priorities (), a caution against letting food or any physical desire dominate one's life. Since the body is described as the temple of the Holy Spirit (), moderation in eating fits within broader biblical stewardship, while struggles with disordered eating patterns are appropriately addressed with support from a physician, dietitian, or counselor alongside spiritual care.

In brief

Proverbs advises putting “a knife to thy throat” figuratively, meaning exercising strong self-restraint, when facing food that tempts toward excess (), and warns that “the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty” due to lack of self-discipline ().

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.