It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
It is not fitting for kings and princes, that is rulers, to take wine or strong drink, and abstinence is their proper course. The same prohibition reaches judges and others holding public office. Intoxicants together with tobacco render such persons unfit for their duties, whereas responsible service and sound judgment call for clear minds. The same principle requires that wine and strong elements be kept out of food, for they cloud the brain and open the way to being drawn into sin.
It is not fitting for kings and princes, that is rulers, to take wine or strong drink, and abstinence is their proper course. The same prohibition reaches judges and others holding public office. Intoxicants together with tobacco render such persons unfit for their duties, whereas responsible service and sound judgment call for clear minds. The same principle requires that wine and strong elements be kept out of food, for they cloud the brain and open the way to being drawn into sin.