Proverbs 27:20

Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

Study Bible

Sheol and Abaddon
In the Hebrew context, "Sheol" refers to the grave or the abode of the dead, a place of darkness and silence. It is often depicted as insatiable, always consuming but never full. "Abaddon," meaning "destruction" or "place of ruin," is often associated with Sheol, emphasizing the relentless nature of death and decay. These terms remind us of the inevitable end that awaits all humanity, underscoring the futility of earthly pursuits when viewed through the lens of eternity. The insatiable nature of Sheol and Abaddon serves as a metaphor for the human condition, where worldly desires and ambitions can never truly be fulfilled.

are never satisfied
The phrase "are never satisfied" highlights the perpetual hunger and unending appetite of Sheol and Abaddon. This imagery is powerful, illustrating the concept that death and destruction are constants in the human experience. In a spiritual sense, it serves as a warning against the endless pursuit of material wealth and earthly pleasures, which can never bring true contentment or fulfillment. The insatiability of Sheol and Abaddon is a call to focus on spiritual growth and eternal values rather than transient, worldly gains.

so the eyes of man
The "eyes of man" symbolize human desires and the tendency to covet what is seen. In biblical literature, the eyes are often associated with temptation and the lust for things that are not ours. This phrase suggests that just as Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, so too are human desires. The eyes are a gateway to the soul, and what we fixate on can lead us away from God’s path. This serves as a caution to guard our hearts and minds, ensuring that our desires align with God’s will.

are never satisfied
Reiterating the earlier phrase, "are never satisfied," this repetition emphasizes the relentless nature of human desire. It is a reminder of the inherent dissatisfaction that comes from seeking fulfillment in anything other than God. The pursuit of worldly pleasures, wealth, and status can lead to a cycle of endless craving, where nothing ever truly satisfies. This serves as a call to seek contentment in God alone, who is the only source of true and lasting satisfaction. The verse challenges believers to examine their own lives and desires, encouraging a shift from temporal to eternal perspectives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sheol
In Hebrew thought, Sheol is the realm of the dead, a place of darkness and silence where the departed spirits reside. It is often depicted as insatiable, always consuming but never full.

2. Abaddon
This term is often associated with destruction or the place of destruction. In some contexts, it is synonymous with Sheol, emphasizing the idea of an insatiable appetite for more.

3. The Eyes of Man
This phrase symbolizes human desire and longing. It reflects the insatiable nature of human wants and the perpetual quest for more, whether it be material possessions, experiences, or achievements.

Teaching Points

The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire
Just as Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, human desires are endless. Recognizing this can help us understand the futility of seeking fulfillment in worldly things.

Contentment in Christ
True satisfaction can only be found in a relationship with Christ. As believers, we are called to find our contentment in Him rather than in the temporary pleasures of the world.

Guarding Against Materialism
The pursuit of material wealth and possessions can lead to a never-ending cycle of dissatisfaction. Christians are encouraged to focus on eternal treasures rather than earthly ones.

The Danger of Covetousness
Covetousness, or the desire for what others have, can lead to spiritual decay. We must guard our hearts against this sin by cultivating gratitude and generosity.

The Role of Spiritual Disciplines
Engaging in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and scripture study can help redirect our desires towards God and away from worldly temptations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of Sheol and Abaddon being "never satisfied" relate to our own experiences with desire and fulfillment?

2. In what ways can we find true contentment in Christ, and how does this differ from the satisfaction the world offers?

3. How can we practically guard against the insatiable nature of materialism in our daily lives?

4. What are some specific ways we can cultivate gratitude and generosity to combat covetousness?

5. How can spiritual disciplines help us redirect our desires towards God and away from worldly temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ecclesiastes 1:8
This verse speaks to the endless cycle of human desire and the inability to find satisfaction in worldly pursuits, much like the insatiable nature of Sheol and Abaddon.

1 John 2:16
This passage discusses the lust of the eyes, which aligns with the idea that human desires are never fully satisfied, echoing the theme of Proverbs 27:20.

James 4:1-3
These verses explore the conflicts and desires that arise from unsatisfied human cravings, further illustrating the concept of insatiable human nature.