◄ Proverbs 7 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Warnings about the Adulteress 1My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. 2Keep my commandments and live; guard my teachings as the applea of your eye. 3Tie them to your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman, 5that they may keep you from the adulteress, from the stranger with seductive words. 6For at the window of my house I looked through the lattice. 7I saw among the simple, I noticed among the youths, a young man lacking judgment, 8crossing the street near her corner, strolling down the road to her house, 9at twilight, as the day was fading into the dark of the night. 10Then a woman came out to meet him, with the attire of a harlot and cunning of heart. 11She is loud and defiant; her feet do not remain at home. 12Now in the street, now in the squares, she lurks at every corner. 13She seizes him and kisses him; she brazenly says to him: 14“I have made my peace offerings; today I have paid my vows. 15So I came out to meet you; I sought you, and I have found you. 16I have decked my bed with coverings, with colored linen from Egypt. 17I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, with aloes, and with cinnamon. 18Come, let us take our fill of love till morning. Let us delight in loving caresses! 19For my husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey. 20He took with him a bag of money and will not return till the moon is full.” 21With her great persuasion she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him. 22He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,b 23until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare— not knowing it will cost him his life. 24Now, my sons, listen to me, and attend to the words of my mouth. 25Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not stray into her paths. 26For she has brought many down to death; her slain are many in number. 27Her house is the road to Sheol, descending to the chambers of death. Footnotes: 2 a Literally the pupil 22 b Probable reading (see LXX, Vulgate, Syriac); Hebrew like fetters to discipline a fool Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Proverbs 7 Summary Warnings about the Adulteress Verses 1–5 – Treasure Wisdom Like Family Solomon urges his “son” to store up his words, guarding them as the pupil of the eye. Wisdom is to be kept as close as a sister; insight as an intimate relative. By tightening this bond, the young person will be protected from the forbidden woman. Verses 6–9 – A Window on the Naïve Looking out, the narrator spots a young, inexperienced man wandering near the wrong corner at dusk. The lack of purpose, the fading light, and the looming night paint a scene ready for danger. Verses 10–20 – The Seductress in Action A bold, dressed-to-impress woman intercepts him. She is loud, restless, and well-versed in flattery. She peppers her appeal with religious-sounding words (“I have made my peace offerings”), shifts blame to her husband’s absence, and makes the moment seem risk-free. Verses 21–23 – The Sudden Trap “By her great persuasion she lures him; with her smooth lips she compels him.” Like an ox led to slaughter or a bird rushing into a snare, the youth steps forward unaware that his life is on the line. Verses 24–27 – Listen and Live Solomon widens the warning to “sons” everywhere. Her house is a highway to the grave; countless strong men have fallen. Turning aside at her doorway is choosing death, but listening to wisdom is choosing life. Proverbs 7, in the Berean Standard Bible, is an urgent plea from a wise father to his son to embrace wisdom and avoid the perils of immorality. The chapter exemplifies how the neglect of wisdom and understanding can lead to destructive decisions, particularly using the metaphor of a young man seduced by an adulterous woman. It is a timeless tale of temptation, deception, and the grave consequences that can follow a lack of wisdom. Literary Setting • Proverbs 1–9 forms a single unit aimed at grounding young people in moral wisdom before the short two-line sayings begin in chapter 10. • Chapter 7 concludes a trilogy of parental talks (chapters 5–7) that spotlight the danger of sexual sin. Historical and Cultural Background • In ancient Israel adultery was a capital crime (Leviticus 20:10). The social shame and legal penalty both underline the weight of Solomon’s warning. • Houses were small; windows faced streets where daily life happened. Observing a passer-by from a lattice was ordinary. • Festivals included peace-offerings that provided meat for celebratory meals (Leviticus 7:11-15). The woman uses that setting to make her invitation sound festive and even pious. Key Hebrew Pictures • “Apple of your eye” (v.2) literally “little man of the eye,” the tiny reflection seen in the pupil—something shielded instinctively. • “Bind them on your fingers” (v.3) recalls Deuteronomy 6:8, a vivid way of saying “let God’s commands be constantly visible.” Archaeological Notes • Ostraca from Samaria (8th century BC) list fines for adultery, showing civil consequences alongside biblical law. • Ivory plaques from Nimrud depict banqueting scenes with scant clothing and suggest the wider Near Eastern culture of sensual feasts that Israel was warned not to imitate. Figures of Speech • Similes pile up in vv.22-23: ox, deer, bird. Each picture adds swiftness or helplessness, stressing inevitability. • “Her house is the way to Sheol” (v.27) personifies a dwelling as a road, pressing home that choices have destinations. Connections to Other Scripture • Exodus 20:14 “You shall not commit adultery.” • Job 31:1 “I have made a covenant with my eyes.” • Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus deepens the command to the level of desire. • 1 Corinthians 6:18 “Flee from sexual immorality.” • 2 Timothy 2:22 “Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness.” • Revelation 2:20-23 warns a church about “Jezebel” who leads servants into immorality, echoing the seductress theme. The Adultery Motif as Spiritual Warning • Throughout Scripture unfaithfulness in marriage often symbolizes idolatry (Hosea 1–3; James 4:4). Proverbs 7 keeps the literal level in view yet hints at a broader lesson: forsaking God’s wisdom is betrayal of covenant love. Practical Lessons on Purity 1. Guard the first moments (vv.6-9). Most falls begin with small careless steps. 2. Keep God’s words close (vv.1-3). Internal truth builds external resistance. 3. Beware flattering speech (vv.21-23). Emotional bait often precedes physical sin. 4. Remember the end (v.27). Visualize the long-term cost, not the short-term thrill. Wisdom as a Safeguard • Calling insight “your sister” (v.4) re-frames purity not as cold restraint but as family loyalty. • The heart is not empty when it is filled with God’s words (Psalm 119:11). Structure of the Chapter 1. Charge to heed wisdom (1-5) 2. Vivid account as cautionary tale (6-23) 3. Closing plea (24-27) Connections to Christ • Jesus embodies perfect wisdom (Colossians 2:3). Clinging to Him satisfies the hungers that sin falsely promises to meet. • The Lord’s Supper fulfills the peace offering (1 Corinthians 5:7-8). Where the woman in v.14 misuses a feast to entice, Jesus uses a meal to call us to holiness. Takeaway for Today The chapter paints sin’s pull with bright colors so that we recognize its lies. Wisdom invites us to live open-eyed, holding God’s word as tightly as we hold the steering wheel on a busy highway. The path of the seductress still claims victims, but those who steer away, guided by Scripture and the Spirit, find life, honor, and freedom. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:14-15 This passage echoes the theme of temptation leading to sin and ultimately death, reinforcing the message of Proverbs 7. 1 Corinthians 10:13 Offers encouragement that God provides a way out of temptation, reminding us of His faithfulness. Psalm 119:9-11 Highlights the importance of hiding God's Word in our hearts to avoid sinning against Him. Teaching Points The Importance of Wisdom and Understanding Proverbs 7:1-4 emphasizes the need to treasure wisdom and understanding as a safeguard against temptation. My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. Keep my commandments and live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Tie them to your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman. The Seductive Nature of Sin Verses 6-23 provide a detailed account of how a young man is led astray by a seductive woman. This passage illustrates how sin often appears attractive and persuasive, yet leads to destruction. With her many persuasions she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him. The Consequences of Yielding to Temptation The chapter concludes with a stark warning about the consequences of succumbing to temptation. Her house is the road to Sheol, descending to the chambers of death (Proverbs 7:27). This serves as a reminder of the spiritual and moral dangers of straying from God's path. Practical Applications Guard Your Heart and Mind Regularly immerse yourself in Scripture and prayer to fortify your heart against temptation. Make wisdom and understanding your constant companions. Recognize and Avoid Temptation Be vigilant in identifying situations or influences that may lead you away from God's will. Establish boundaries to protect yourself from compromising situations. Seek Accountability Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide support and accountability in your spiritual journey. Share your struggles and victories with trusted friends or mentors. People 1. The Father/Teacher This person is the speaker in the passage, offering wisdom and instruction. He represents a figure of authority and guidance, urging the listener to adhere to his teachings. The Hebrew root for "father" is אָב (av), which often signifies a paternal figure or a source of wisdom. 2. The Son/Young Man The recipient of the father's teachings, this person is advised to keep the commandments and teachings close to heart. The Hebrew word for "son" is בֵּן (ben), indicating a learner or disciple in this context. 3. The Adulteress/Strange Woman Described as a seductive and dangerous figure, she represents temptation and moral downfall. The Hebrew term זָרָה (zarah) is used, meaning "strange" or "foreign," highlighting her role as an outsider to the moral path. 4. The Simple/Naive Young Man This person is depicted as lacking judgment and easily led astray by the adulteress. The Hebrew word פֶּתִי (peti) is used, meaning "simple" or "naive," indicating a lack of wisdom or discernment. Places 1. The Street The street is depicted as a public place where the young man encounters the seductress. It represents the broader world where one is exposed to various influences and temptations. The Hebrew word used here is "חוּץ" (chuts), which can mean outside or a public area. 2. The Square The square is another public area mentioned in the text, symbolizing a place of gathering and social interaction. It is a setting where the young man is vulnerable to the seductress's advances. The Hebrew term "רְחֹב" (rechov) refers to a broad place or plaza. 3. The Corner The corner is a more specific location within the street or square, suggesting a place where paths cross and decisions are made. It is at the corner that the young man is approached by the woman. The Hebrew word "פִּנָּה" (pinnah) can mean a corner or a turning point. 4. Her House The woman's house is the ultimate destination she leads the young man to, symbolizing the culmination of temptation and the potential for moral downfall. It represents a private space where the young man is drawn into sin. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit) is used, meaning house or dwelling. Events 1. Admonition to Keep Wisdom The chapter begins with an exhortation to keep the father's words and treasure his commandments. The Hebrew word for "keep" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies guarding or protecting wisdom as one would a valuable possession. ^"My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you."^ (Proverbs 7:1) 2. Bind Them on Your Fingers The father advises to bind the commandments on one's fingers and write them on the heart, symbolizing constant remembrance and internalization. ^"Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart."^ (Proverbs 7:3) 3. Call Wisdom Your Sister Wisdom is personified and should be regarded as a close relative, emphasizing intimacy and familiarity. ^"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman,"^ (Proverbs 7:4) 4. Warning Against the Adulteress The father warns against the seductive and deceitful nature of the adulteress, who represents folly and sin. ^"that they may keep you from the adulteress, from the stranger with seductive words."^ (Proverbs 7:5) 5. Observation of the Naive Young Man The narrator observes a naive young man lacking judgment, illustrating the vulnerability of those who do not heed wisdom. ^"I saw among the simple, I noticed among the youths, a young man lacking judgment,"^ (Proverbs 7:7) 6. The Woman's Seduction The adulteress approaches the young man with seductive attire and a cunning heart, highlighting her manipulative nature. ^"Then a woman came out to meet him, with the attire of a harlot and cunning of heart."^ (Proverbs 7:10) 7. Her Persuasive Speech She uses persuasive and flattering speech to entice the young man, demonstrating the power of words in leading one astray. ^"With her enticing speech she persuades him; with her flattering lips she lures him."^ (Proverbs 7:21) 8. The Young Man's Downfall The young man succumbs to her seduction, likened to an ox going to slaughter, illustrating the grave consequences of folly. ^"He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,"^ (Proverbs 7:22) 9. The Call to Heed Wisdom The chapter concludes with a call to listen and pay attention to wisdom, reinforcing the importance of adhering to righteous paths. ^"Now, my sons, listen to me, and attend to the words of my mouth."^ (Proverbs 7:24) 10. Warning of the House of Death The final warning describes the house of the adulteress as a path to Sheol, emphasizing the spiritual and physical dangers of succumbing to temptation. ^"Her house is the road to Sheol, descending to the chambers of death."^ (Proverbs 7:27) Lessons from Proverbs 7 1. Guard Your Heart with Wisdom Proverbs 7 begins with a fatherly plea: "My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you" (Proverbs 7:1). This is a call to guard your heart with wisdom, as it is the wellspring of life. By internalizing God's commandments, you build a fortress around your heart, protecting it from the temptations and distractions of the world. Wisdom is not just knowledge; it is the application of God's truth in your daily life. 2. Bind Them on Your Fingers The imagery of binding commandments on your fingers (Proverbs 7:3) is a vivid reminder to keep God's Word close at hand. Just as you might tie a string around your finger to remember something important, let Scripture be your constant reminder. This practice helps you make decisions that honor God, ensuring His guidance is always within reach. 3. Write Them on the Tablet of Your Heart Writing God's commandments on the tablet of your heart (Proverbs 7:3) signifies a deep, personal commitment to His Word. This is more than memorization; it is about allowing Scripture to shape your character and influence your actions. When God's truth is etched into your heart, it becomes the foundation of your life, guiding you in every situation. 4. Embrace Wisdom as Your Sister Proverbs 7:4 encourages us to "say to wisdom, 'You are my sister.'" This familial relationship suggests intimacy and trust. Wisdom should be as close to you as family, offering guidance and support. By embracing wisdom, you cultivate a relationship that enriches your life and keeps you aligned with God's will. 5. Beware of the Seductive Path The chapter warns against the allure of temptation, personified as a seductive woman. "With her many persuasions she entices him" (Proverbs 7:21). This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of straying from God's path. Recognize the seductive nature of sin and stay vigilant, relying on God's wisdom to steer clear of its traps. 6. Understand the Consequences of Folly Proverbs 7 paints a vivid picture of the consequences of folly. The young man who succumbs to temptation is likened to "an ox going to the slaughter" (Proverbs 7:22). This stark imagery underscores the gravity of sin's consequences. Understanding these outcomes helps you make wise choices that lead to life, not destruction. 7. Keep Your Eyes on the Path The chapter emphasizes the importance of focus: "Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways" (Proverbs 7:25). Keeping your eyes on the path means staying committed to God's direction for your life. Distractions are inevitable, but maintaining focus on His Word ensures you remain on the right course. 8. Recognize the Power of Influence Proverbs 7 highlights the power of influence, both good and bad. The young man is led astray by the persuasive words of the temptress. This reminds us to choose our influences wisely. Surround yourself with those who encourage your walk with God, and be a positive influence in the lives of others. 9. Seek Understanding and Discernment The chapter calls for understanding and discernment, urging you to "keep my commandments and live" (Proverbs 7:2). These qualities enable you to see beyond the surface and make decisions that align with God's truth. By seeking understanding, you gain insight into His plans and purposes for your life. 10. Live with Eternal Perspective Finally, Proverbs 7 encourages living with an eternal perspective. The fleeting pleasures of sin are contrasted with the lasting fulfillment found in God's wisdom. By focusing on eternity, you prioritize what truly matters, ensuring your life reflects the hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ. Topics 1. Adherence to Wisdom and Commandments The chapter begins with an exhortation to keep and treasure the commandments and teachings as a safeguard against temptation. ^"My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you."^ (Proverbs 7:1) The Hebrew word for "keep" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies guarding or protecting, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in adhering to wisdom. 2. Personification of Wisdom as a Sister Wisdom is personified as a close relative, suggesting an intimate and protective relationship. ^"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman,"^ (Proverbs 7:4) This personification underscores the need for a personal and familial connection to wisdom. 3. Warning Against the Seductress The chapter vividly describes the allure and danger of the adulterous woman, serving as a metaphor for temptation. ^"That they may keep you from the adulteress, from the stranger with seductive words."^ (Proverbs 7:5) The term "seductive words" (חֵלֶק, cheleq) can also mean "smooth" or "flattering," highlighting the deceitful nature of temptation. 4. The Naive Young Man A narrative unfolds about a young man lacking judgment who falls prey to the seductress. ^"I saw among the simple, I noticed among the youths, a young man lacking judgment,"^ (Proverbs 7:7) The Hebrew word for "simple" (פֶּתִי, pethi) refers to someone naive or easily misled. 5. The Seductress's Tactics The chapter details the seductive tactics used to lure the young man, including flattery and false promises. ^"With her many persuasions she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him."^ (Proverbs 7:21) The Hebrew root for "entices" (נָטָה, natah) suggests bending or inclining, indicating manipulation. 6. Consequences of Yielding to Temptation The narrative warns of the dire consequences of succumbing to temptation, likening it to an animal led to slaughter. ^"He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter,"^ (Proverbs 7:22) The imagery of slaughter (טֶבַח, tebach) conveys the ultimate destruction that follows moral failure. 7. Call to Heed Wisdom's Warning The chapter concludes with a call to listen and adhere to wisdom to avoid the path of destruction. ^"Now, my sons, listen to me, and attend to the words of my mouth."^ (Proverbs 7:24) The imperative "listen" (שָׁמַע, shama) emphasizes active and attentive obedience. Themes 1. The Importance of Wisdom and Understanding Proverbs 7 begins with an exhortation to value wisdom and understanding as protective measures against temptation. The text emphasizes keeping the commandments and teachings close, as seen in Proverbs 7:1-2: "My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. Keep my commandments and live, guard my teachings as the apple of your eye." 2. The Seductive Nature of Temptation The chapter vividly describes the seductive tactics of the adulterous woman, symbolizing the alluring nature of sin. Proverbs 7:5 warns, "that they may keep you from the adulteress, from the stranger with seductive words." The Hebrew word for "seductive" (חֵלֶק, cheleq) implies smoothness or flattery, highlighting the deceitful charm of temptation. 3. The Folly of Ignorance and Naivety The young man in the narrative is portrayed as lacking judgment and easily led astray. Proverbs 7:7 states, "I saw among the simple, I noticed among the youths, a young man lacking judgment." The Hebrew term for "simple" (פֶּתִי, peti) suggests a lack of experience or insight, underscoring the danger of ignorance. 4. The Consequences of Sin The chapter concludes with a stark warning about the destructive outcomes of succumbing to temptation. Proverbs 7:22-23 illustrates this vividly: "He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap, until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare—not knowing it will cost him his life." The imagery used here emphasizes the fatal consequences of sin. 5. The Call to Heed Wisdom's Warning The final verses of the chapter serve as a call to listen to wisdom and avoid the path of destruction. Proverbs 7:24-25 urges, "Now, my sons, listen to me, and attend to the words of my mouth. Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not stray into her paths." This theme reinforces the necessity of vigilance and adherence to wisdom. Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God to grant you wisdom and understanding to discern His will and resist temptation. Pray for Strength Seek God's strength to stand firm against the allure of sin and to make righteous choices. Pray for Protection Request God's protection over your heart and mind, that you may remain steadfast in your faith. Pray for Accountability Ask God to provide you with a community of believers who can support and hold you accountable in your walk with Christ. Answering Tough Questions 1. Does the street-roaming seductress in Proverbs 7:6–12 reflect actual ancient customs or serve only as a symbolic warning? 2. Why does Proverbs 7 focus on the woman’s guilt while largely overlooking the man’s responsibility (vv. 7–9)? 3. Does the depiction of sudden destruction for the tempted (Proverbs 7:22–27) contradict a just and merciful God? 4. How does Proverbs 7’s cautionary message align or conflict with the theme of grace and redemption found in John 8:1–11? 5. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence supporting the cultural practices implied in Proverbs 7, or is it purely a moral allegory? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Proverbs 7 emphasize the importance of keeping wisdom and understanding close? 2. How might the naive young man's decisions be representative of common errors in judgment? 3. What are some modern-day examples of temptation that compare to the "adulterous woman" in Proverbs 7? 4. How can wisdom guide us in identifying and resisting such temptations in today's context? 5. How does the adulterous woman's seduction technique relate to the ways in which temptations often appear attractive and risk-free? 6. What does the imagery of an "ox going to slaughter" or a "bird rushing into a snare" signify about the young man's fate? 7. How can you apply the teachings of Proverbs 7 to avoid similar pitfalls in your life? 8. How does the adulterous woman use manipulation and persuasion? Are there similar tactics used today to lead people astray? 9. How can the father's advice be interpreted as a metaphor for God's guidance? 10. Discuss the role of personal accountability as emphasized in this chapter. 11. How does Proverbs 7 illuminate the difference between worldly and divine wisdom? 12. How can the warnings in this chapter guide us in our relationships and choices? 13. What does this chapter teach about the consequences of succumbing to immoral temptations? 14. Why is it important to treasure wisdom and understanding, according to this chapter? 15. What lessons about discernment can we learn from the naive young man's story? 16. How does the environment influence the young man's choices, and how can we relate this to our current surroundings? 17. What preventive measures can one take based on the teachings in Proverbs 7 to avoid falling into moral pitfalls? 18. How can the wisdom of the father in this chapter serve as a model for modern-day mentorship? 19. Discuss the connection between lack of wisdom and the path to death, as described in this chapter. 20. How can the messages of Proverbs 7 help us to lead a more fulfilling and righteous life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions