Proverbs 5:9

lest you concede your vigor to others, and your years to one who is cruel;

Study Bible

lest you concede
The phrase "lest you concede" serves as a warning, urging the reader to avoid a particular outcome. The Hebrew root here is "תִּתֵּן" (titten), which means "to give" or "to yield." In the context of Proverbs, this is a caution against giving away something valuable, such as one's strength or honor, to others. The wisdom literature of the Bible often emphasizes the importance of guarding one's integrity and resources, suggesting that conceding them can lead to personal and spiritual loss.

your vigor
The word "vigor" is translated from the Hebrew "הוֹד" (hod), which can mean "splendor," "majesty," or "strength." This term is often associated with the vitality and energy that God bestows upon individuals. In a broader biblical context, vigor is a gift from God meant to be used for His glory and purposes. The warning here is against squandering this divine gift through foolish or sinful actions, such as engaging in immoral relationships or pursuits.

to others
The phrase "to others" implies a transfer of what is rightfully one's own to someone else. In the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, this could refer to losing one's wealth, reputation, or even family inheritance to outsiders or adversaries. The wisdom of Proverbs often contrasts the wise, who retain their resources and honor, with the foolish, who lose them to others through poor decisions.

and your years
"Your years" refers to the span of one's life, emphasizing the preciousness of time. The Hebrew word "שָׁנִים" (shanim) is used here, highlighting the idea that life is a finite resource. The Bible frequently reminds believers to use their time wisely, as seen in passages like Psalm 90:12, which encourages numbering our days to gain a heart of wisdom. The implication is that wasting one's years on unworthy pursuits is a form of self-imposed cruelty.

to one who is cruel
The phrase "to one who is cruel" warns against becoming subject to harsh or oppressive individuals. The Hebrew word "אַכְזָרִי" (akzari) denotes someone who is ruthless or merciless. In the biblical narrative, cruelty is often associated with those who oppose God's people or His ways. This serves as a cautionary note to avoid entanglements with individuals or systems that do not honor God, as they can lead to spiritual and physical bondage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
- The author of Proverbs, known for his wisdom, who provides guidance on moral and ethical living.

2. The Adulteress
- While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Proverbs 5 warns against the temptations of an adulterous woman, symbolizing the dangers of infidelity and immorality.

3. The Young Man
- The primary audience of Solomon's warnings, representing anyone who might be tempted by immoral behavior.

4. The Cruel One
- A metaphorical figure representing the consequences and harsh realities that follow a life of sin and poor choices.

5. Ancient Israel
- The cultural and historical backdrop of the Proverbs, where wisdom literature was a key component of teaching and moral instruction.

Teaching Points

Guard Your Strength
The term "vigor" in Hebrew can refer to strength or honor. Protect your physical, emotional, and spiritual strength by avoiding immoral relationships.

Value Your Time
The "years" given to a cruel one symbolize wasted time and opportunities. Use your time wisely in pursuits that honor God.

Recognize Consequences
Understand that sinful actions have real and often severe consequences, affecting not just the individual but also those around them.

Seek Wisdom
Continually seek God's wisdom through prayer and study of the Scriptures to make righteous choices.

Pursue Holiness
Strive for a life of purity and holiness, recognizing that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the warning in Proverbs 5:9 about conceding your vigor to others apply to modern temptations and distractions?

2. In what ways can we guard our "years" from being given to "one who is cruel" in today's context?

3. How do the warnings in Proverbs 5 relate to the New Testament teachings on sexual purity and holiness?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your strength and time are used for God's glory?

5. How can the wisdom of Proverbs 5:9 be applied in relationships, both personal and professional, to avoid negative consequences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 6:26-29
- These verses further warn about the dangers of adultery and the consequences of engaging in such behavior, emphasizing the loss and destruction it brings.

Ecclesiastes 7:26
- Solomon speaks of the snare of a seductive woman, paralleling the warnings in Proverbs about the dangers of immorality.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
- Paul advises believers to flee from sexual immorality, highlighting the spiritual and physical consequences of such actions.

Ephesians 5:15-17
- Paul encourages believers to live wisely and make the most of their time, avoiding foolishness and understanding the Lord's will.