◄ Proverbs 6 ►
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Warnings against Foolishness 1My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, 2if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth, 3then do this, my son, to free yourself, for you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go, humble yourself,a and press your plea with your neighbor. 4Allow no sleep to your eyes or slumber to your eyelids. 5Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,b like a bird from the snare of the fowler. 6Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. 7Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, 8it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest. 9How long will you lie there, O slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? 10A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, 11and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit. 12A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth, 13winking his eyes, speaking with his feet, and pointing with his fingers. 14With deceit in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord. 15Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery. 16There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: 17haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, 19a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers. Warnings against Adultery 20My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. 21Bind them always upon your heart; tie them around your neck. 22When you walk, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. 23For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way to life, 24to keep you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress.c 25Do not lust in your heart for her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes.d 26For the levy of the prostitute is poverty,e and the adulteress preys upon your very life. 27Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned? 28Can a man walk on hot coals without scorching his feet? 29So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished. 30Men do not despise the thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger. 31Yet if caught, he must pay sevenfold; he must give up all the wealth of his house. 32He who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. 33Wounds and dishonor will befall him, and his reproach will never be wiped away. 34For jealousy enrages a husband, and he will show no mercy in the day of vengeance. 35He will not be appeased by any ransom, or persuaded by lavish gifts. Footnotes: 3 a Or hasten 5 b Hebrew does not include of the hunter. 24 c Or the stranger 25 d Or eyelids or eyelashes 26 e Literally a crust of bread 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 6 Summary Warnings against Foolishness Verses 1–5 – Recklessness of Cosigning Solomon warns his “son” not to entangle himself by guaranteeing another person’s loan. A handshake agreement can trap the well-meaning friend in ruin. Escape while there is time—swallow pride, plead, and free yourself from the deal. Verses 6–11 – Sluggard & the Ant The lazy person is sent to observe the diligent ant, which works without supervision, stores food, and is never caught unprepared. Drowsiness and folded hands invite sudden poverty “like an armed man.” Verses 12–15 – Portrait of the Mischief-Maker A worthless fellow uses words, eyes, feet, and fingers to plot evil. His crooked heart sows discord until calamity overtakes him “in an instant.” Verses 16–19 – Seven Detestable Sins Yahweh hates haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a scheming heart, eager feet racing to evil, a false witness, and the one who stirs up dissension among brothers. Verses 20–23 – Light of Parental Wisdom A father’s command and a mother’s teaching are to be bound on the heart and worn around the neck. “For this commandment is a lamp and this teaching a light.” Verses 24–29 – Snare of Adultery Wisdom protects against the seductive tongue of an adulteress. Lustful eyes invite ruin; fire in the lap and coals underfoot always burn the carrier. Verses 30–35 – Folly of Adultery vs. Theft A starving thief may repay sevenfold, but the adulterer destroys his own life. Jealous rage will not accept compensation; the offended husband seeks revenge without mercy. Proverbs 6 is a chapter filled with wisdom and cautionary tales, instructing the reader on the virtues of diligence, the perils of financial foolishness, the significance of honesty, and the destructive consequences of adultery. In this chapter, we find valuable lessons on avoiding pitfalls and steering a course towards righteousness. Historical and Cultural Background • In Israel’s clan-based economy, debts were often sealed by personal surety rather than written contracts. A handshake or the striking of palms (v. 1) carried legal force (Job 17:3). • Ants were a familiar sight in dry Near-Eastern soils. Their organized storage of grain during harvest impressed ancient observers (cf. Agur’s similar note, Proverbs 30:25). • Courts rarely mediated adultery cases; the husband’s honor determined outcome (v. 34). Blood-vengeance customs lingered from earlier tribal law (Genesis 34:25-31). Cosigning and Debt in the Ancient World 1. Scripture repeatedly discourages taking on another’s financial risk (Proverbs 11:15; 17:18; 22:26-27). 2. Israel’s law allowed debts to enslave families temporarily (2 Kings 4:1). Solomon insists that charity must never mortgage the future of one’s household (1 Timothy 5:8). 3. Practical counsel: negotiate release swiftly (“humble yourself,” v. 3). Jesus echoes the urgency of settling matters quickly with an accuser (Matthew 5:25-26). God’s View of Work and Industry • Work precedes the Fall (Genesis 2:15) and remains dignified. Paul borrows Solomon’s ant lecture: “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). • The sluggard trilogy—sleep, folding hands, empty harvest—appears again in Proverbs 24:30-34. • “Poverty will come…like an armed man” (v. 11). The imagery suggests a bandit sprinting from ambush. Laziness invites crisis we thought was far away. Sowing Discord: Body Language and Community Life • Eyes that wink, feet that signal, fingers that point (vv. 12-13) describe secret plots more than folk gestures. God watches the small covert cues we assume go unnoticed (Psalm 139:4). • Discord within Israel endangered covenant unity (Leviticus 19:17-18). Paul lists strife and factions as “works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-21). The Seven Abominations: The Lord’s Moral Compass 1. Proud eyes—placing self above God (Isaiah 2:11). 2. Lying tongue—Satan’s native language (John 8:44). 3. Murderous hands—condemned from Genesis 4 onward. 4. Wicked schemes—contrast with Jeremiah 29:11, God’s plans for welfare. 5. Feet quick to evil—opposite of “beautiful…are the feet…that bring good news” (Isaiah 52:7). 6. False witness—breaks the Ninth Commandment (Exodus 20:16) and perverts justice (Proverbs 19:5). 7. Sowing discord—last mentioned, often most destructive; Jesus prayed that His followers “may be one” (John 17:21). Parental Instruction as Lifelong Guide • “Bind them continually upon your heart” (v. 21) recalls Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where God’s words are tied on hands and doorposts. • The triad “when you walk… sleep… awake” (v. 22) paints an all-day guardianship echoed in Psalm 121:4-8. • Lamps and light (v. 23) foreshadow Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet.” Sexual Purity and the Sanctity of Marriage • Adultery was punishable by death under Mosaic law (Leviticus 20:10), highlighting its seriousness. • Jesus intensifies the standard: “Everyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28), overlapping vv. 24-25. • Fire imagery (vv. 27-28) anticipates Paul’s warning that sexual sin is “against his own body” (1 Corinthians 6:18). • Jealous husband (vv. 34-35) echoes Song of Songs 8:6—“Jealousy is as severe as Sheol.” No bribe can placate outraged covenant love. Comparative Themes Across Scripture • Surety vs. stewardship: Contrast the prodigal’s reckless pledges (Luke 15:13-14) with the prudent manager in Joseph (Genesis 41:46-49). • Ant industry mirrors Ruth gleaning diligently, leading to redemption (Ruth 2). • Seven detestable sins parallel Christ’s beatitudes: pride vs. poor in spirit, lies vs. hunger for righteousness, violence vs. peacemakers (Matthew 5:3-12). • Parental wisdom fulfilled in Timothy, who knew Scripture from infancy through mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15). • Fire-of-adultery motif reappears in Revelation 2:22 where Jezebel’s immorality brings “great tribulation” upon her companions. Connections to Additional Scriptures Financial Wisdom Proverbs 22:7 - The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Diligence Colossians 3:23 - Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men. Moral Integrity Psalm 101:3 - I will set no worthless thing before my eyes. Guarding Against Temptation 1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. Teaching Points Avoiding Financial Entanglements Proverbs 6:1-5 warns against becoming surety for a neighbor. The passage advises us to free ourselves from such obligations as quickly as possible, emphasizing the importance of financial prudence and responsibility. The Dangers of Laziness Verses 6-11 use the example of the ant to illustrate the value of diligence and hard work. The ant, without a commander, prepares its provisions in summer, teaching us the importance of foresight and industriousness. The Seven Things God Hates Verses 16-19 list seven detestable sins, including haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. This section underscores the importance of moral integrity and the consequences of sin. The Adulterous Woman Verses 20-35 warn against the seduction of adultery, highlighting the destructive consequences of infidelity. This serves as a reminder to guard our hearts and remain faithful to God's commandments. Practical Applications Financial Wisdom Be cautious about co-signing loans or entering into financial agreements that could jeopardize your financial stability. Seek God's wisdom in all financial decisions. Cultivate Diligence Reflect on your work habits. Are there areas where you can be more industrious or proactive? Consider setting goals to improve your productivity and stewardship of time. Pursue Righteousness Regularly examine your heart for any of the seven sins listed in Proverbs 6:16-19. Confess and repent of these sins, seeking to align your life with God's standards. Guard Your Heart Be vigilant against temptations that could lead to moral failure. Strengthen your commitment to purity and faithfulness in all relationships. People 1. The Debtor (v. 1-5) This person is described as someone who has put up security for a neighbor or stranger, essentially becoming financially obligated or entangled. The advice given is to free oneself from this obligation as quickly as possible, akin to escaping from a trap. 2. The Sluggard (v. 6-11) The sluggard is characterized by laziness and a lack of initiative. The text advises this person to learn from the ant, which is industrious and prepares for the future. The Hebrew root for "sluggard" (עָצֵל, 'atsel) conveys a sense of sluggishness or idleness. 3. The Wicked Man (v. 12-15) This individual is described as a troublemaker and a villain, who uses deceitful speech and signals to sow discord. The Hebrew term for "wicked" (בְּלִיַּעַל, beliyaal) often implies worthlessness or lawlessness. 4. The Adulteress (v. 24-35) The adulteress is depicted as a seductive and dangerous figure, leading others into infidelity and moral ruin. The text warns against her allure and the severe consequences of engaging with her. The Hebrew word for "adulteress" (נָכְרִיָּה, nokriyah) can also mean "foreign woman," emphasizing her as an outsider to the covenant community. Places 1. The Ant's Domain Proverbs 6:6: "Walk in the manner of the ant, O sluggard; observe its ways and be wise." This refers to the natural habitat of the ant, symbolizing diligence and industriousness. The Hebrew root for "ant" (נְמָלָה, nemalah) emphasizes the creature's industrious nature. 2. The Field of the Sluggard Implied in Proverbs 6:9-11: "How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?" This metaphorical place represents laziness and neglect, leading to poverty and scarcity. 3. The Path of the Wicked Proverbs 6:12-15: "A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth..." This "path" symbolizes the lifestyle and choices of those who engage in deceit and malice. 4. The House of the Adulteress Proverbs 6:24-29: "to keep you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress." This represents the seductive and destructive environment of infidelity and moral compromise. 5. The Fire of Passion Implied in Proverbs 6:27-28: "Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned?" This metaphorical place warns against the dangers of unchecked desires and the consequences of adultery. Events 1. Warning Against Financial Entanglements (Verses 1-5) The chapter begins with a warning about becoming surety for a neighbor or stranger. The text advises to free oneself from such obligations quickly. The Hebrew root for "surety" (עָרַב, 'arab) implies a pledge or guarantee, emphasizing the seriousness of financial commitments. 2. Exhortation to Diligence (Verses 6-11) The ant is used as an example of diligence and hard work. The passage encourages avoiding laziness, as it leads to poverty. The Hebrew word for "sluggard" (עָצֵל, 'atsel) suggests sluggishness or idleness, contrasting with the industrious nature of the ant. 3. Description of a Worthless and Wicked Person (Verses 12-15) This section describes the characteristics of a deceitful and malicious person, who sows discord. The Hebrew term for "worthless" (בְּלִיַּעַל, beliya'al) often denotes someone who is morally corrupt or lawless. 4. Seven Things the Lord Hates (Verses 16-19) The text lists seven abominations to the Lord, including haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. The Hebrew word for "abomination" (תּוֹעֵבָה, to'evah) indicates something detestable or loathsome to God. 5. Warning Against Adultery (Verses 20-35) The chapter concludes with a warning against adultery, emphasizing the destructive consequences of such actions. The Hebrew root for "adultery" (נָאַף, na'aph) underscores the breach of covenant and moral law. Lessons from Proverbs 6 1. Avoid the Trap of Debt Proverbs 6:1-2 warns us about the dangers of becoming ensnared by financial obligations: "My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, you have been trapped by the words of your lips." This passage reminds us to be cautious with our financial commitments. In today's world, it's easy to fall into the trap of debt, but by living within our means and being wise with our resources, we can avoid unnecessary burdens and maintain our freedom to serve God and others. 2. The Urgency of Resolving Mistakes In verses 3-5, we are encouraged to act swiftly to correct our errors: "Go, humble yourself, and press your plea with your neighbor. Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter." This teaches us the importance of addressing our mistakes promptly. Whether it's a financial misstep or a relational conflict, taking immediate action can prevent further complications and restore peace. 3. The Value of Diligence Proverbs 6:6-8 highlights the industrious nature of the ant: "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food at harvest." This lesson encourages us to be proactive and diligent in our work. By emulating the ant's self-motivation and foresight, we can achieve our goals and fulfill our responsibilities with excellence. 4. The Perils of Laziness Verses 9-11 caution against the dangers of idleness: "How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit." Laziness can lead to missed opportunities and unmet needs. By staying active and purposeful, we can avoid the pitfalls of procrastination and embrace a life of productivity. 5. The Destructive Nature of Deceit Proverbs 6:12-15 warns about the consequences of deceitful behavior: "A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth, winking his eyes, speaking with his feet, and pointing with his fingers. With deceit in his heart, he devises evil; he continually sows discord." Honesty and integrity are foundational to a life that honors God. By speaking truthfully and acting with sincerity, we build trust and foster harmony in our relationships. 6. The Seven Things God Hates Verses 16-19 list behaviors that are detestable to the Lord: "There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers." This passage serves as a moral compass, guiding us to avoid these destructive behaviors and pursue righteousness. 7. The Importance of Heeding Parental Wisdom Proverbs 6:20-23 emphasizes the value of parental guidance: "My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always upon your heart; tie them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you." Listening to the wisdom of those who have gone before us can illuminate our path and protect us from harm. 8. The Protection of Godly Instruction In verses 24-25, we learn about the protective power of godly instruction: "To keep you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. Do not lust in your heart for her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes." By adhering to biblical principles, we safeguard our hearts and minds from temptation and remain faithful to our commitments. 9. The Consequences of Adultery Proverbs 6:26-29 warns of the severe consequences of infidelity: "For the levy of a prostitute is poverty, and the adulteress preys upon your very life. Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without scorching his feet? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished." This passage underscores the importance of fidelity and the devastating impact of unfaithfulness on individuals and families. 10. The Cost of Foolishness Finally, verses 30-35 remind us of the high cost of foolish actions: "Men do not despise the thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger. Yet if caught, he must pay sevenfold; he must give up all the wealth of his house. He who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself." Foolish decisions can lead to lasting consequences. By seeking wisdom and exercising discernment, we can avoid costly mistakes and live a life that honors God. Topics 1. Warnings Against Financial Entanglements (Verses 1-5) This section advises against becoming surety for a neighbor or pledging oneself for the debts of others. The Hebrew term "עָרַב" (arab) refers to becoming a guarantor or co-signer, which can lead to financial ruin. The passage urges one to free oneself from such obligations as quickly as possible. 2. The Folly of Laziness (Verses 6-11) These verses use the example of the ant to illustrate the importance of diligence and hard work. The Hebrew word "עָצֵל" (atsel) describes a sluggard or lazy person, warning that laziness leads to poverty and scarcity, much like an unexpected traveler or armed man. 3. The Wickedness of a Corrupt Person (Verses 12-15) This section describes the characteristics of a deceitful and malicious person, using terms like "בְּלִיַּעַל" (belial), meaning worthless or wicked. It warns that such behavior leads to sudden calamity and destruction. 4. Seven Things the Lord Hates (Verses 16-19) This passage lists seven detestable sins, including haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. The Hebrew word "שֶׁקֶר" (sheker) for lying emphasizes falsehood and deceit, highlighting the moral abominations that disrupt community and divine order. 5. Warnings Against Adultery (Verses 20-35) The final section warns against the dangers of adultery, emphasizing the importance of adhering to parental teachings and God's commandments. The Hebrew term "נָאֵף" (na'aph) refers to committing adultery, and the passage underscores the severe consequences of such actions, including personal ruin and social disgrace. Themes 1. Warnings Against Financial Entanglements Proverbs 6:1-5 cautions against becoming surety for another's debt. The Hebrew term "עָרַב" (arab) implies a pledge or guarantee, highlighting the risk of entangling oneself in another's financial obligations. The passage advises swift action to free oneself from such commitments. 2. Diligence and Hard Work Verses 6-11 use the ant as a model of industriousness, urging the reader to avoid laziness. The Hebrew word "עָצֵל" (atsel) for "sluggard" emphasizes the moral and practical dangers of idleness, advocating for proactive and diligent work. 3. The Dangers of Deceit and Malice Proverbs 6:12-15 describes a "worthless person" who spreads discord through deceit. The Hebrew "בְּלִיַּעַל" (belial) refers to someone without value or integrity, warning against the destructive nature of malicious behavior. 4. Seven Things the Lord Hates Verses 16-19 list seven detestable sins, including pride, lying, and sowing discord. The Hebrew "שֶׁבַע" (sheva) for "seven" signifies completeness, underscoring the comprehensive nature of these abominations in God's eyes. 5. Adherence to Parental Instruction Proverbs 6:20-23 emphasizes the importance of heeding parental guidance, likening it to a lamp and light. The Hebrew "תּוֹרָה" (torah) for "instruction" suggests a broader sense of teaching and moral direction, rooted in divine wisdom. 6. Warnings Against Adultery Verses 24-35 warn against the seduction of an adulteress, highlighting the severe consequences of infidelity. The Hebrew "נָכְרִיָּה" (nokriyah) for "adulteress" conveys the idea of a foreign or strange woman, symbolizing moral and spiritual danger. Prayer Points Wisdom in Finances Pray for discernment and wisdom in managing your finances and making sound financial decisions. Diligence and Work Ethic Ask God to help you cultivate a spirit of diligence and to bless the work of your hands. Heart Examination Seek God's help in identifying and overcoming any sin in your life that is displeasing to Him. Protection from Temptation Pray for strength and vigilance to resist temptations and to remain faithful to God's commandments. As we reflect on Proverbs 6, may we be inspired to live lives marked by wisdom, diligence, and integrity, always seeking to honor God in all that we do. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Proverbs 6:6–8 claim ants have “no ruler” when science shows ant colonies have a strict hierarchy? 2. Why does Proverbs 6:16–19 say God hates certain behaviors if “God is love” elsewhere (e.g., 1 John 4:8)? 3. How do warnings against guaranteeing a neighbor’s debt in Proverbs 6:1–5 align with Jesus’s teachings on generosity (Matthew 5:42)? 4. If these proverbs claim universal wisdom, why is there no clear historical or archeological evidence of any unique ancient source behind Proverbs 6? 5. Why does Proverbs 6:20–35 focus so intensely on adultery and lust but offer little instruction on other pressing moral or societal issues? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do verses 1-5 reflect on today's financial obligations such as student loans, credit card debt, or co-signing a loan? 2. In what ways does the metaphor of the ant and the sluggard apply to our current society? 3. How can the teachings about diligence and laziness in verses 6-11 be applied in your personal life? 4. Verses 12-15 warn against being a dishonest person. How can we identify such traits in ourselves and change them? 5. Why do you think God detests the seven things mentioned in verses 16-19? 6. How can we actively avoid these seven detestable things in our daily life? 7. In verses 20-35, why does the author place such emphasis on the perils of adultery? 8. How can the warnings against adultery be extended to other forms of betrayal or breaking trust in modern relationships? 9. How can the lessons of this chapter influence your decisions about lending money or acting as a guarantor? 10. How can you utilize the wisdom in this chapter to improve your work ethic or habits? 11. How can you implement lessons from Proverbs 6 to foster honesty and integrity within your community? 12. How can these teachings help us resist the temptation of short-term gains for long-term losses? 13. What practices could help you integrate the teachings about hard work and diligence from this chapter into your life? 14. How does the modern understanding of dishonesty relate to the seven things that God detests as per this chapter? 15. How does Proverbs 6 challenge the way you think about your obligations and commitments to others? 16. How can we ensure our actions and intentions do not align with the seven things God hates? 17. What steps can one take to avoid the pitfalls of laziness, dishonesty, and infidelity as warned in this chapter? 18. How does the stern warning against adultery in this chapter impact your understanding of trust and loyalty in relationships? 19. How can the wisdom from Proverbs 6 be applied to ethical decision making in business or professional life? 20. How does the message of Proverbs 6 shape your perspective on personal and societal responsibility? 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