Proverbs 7:23

until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare--not knowing it will cost him his life.

Study Bible

till an arrow pierces his liver
This phrase paints a vivid and dramatic picture of the consequences of succumbing to temptation. The "arrow" symbolizes sudden and inevitable judgment or consequence. In ancient times, the liver was considered the seat of life and emotion, making this imagery particularly poignant. The Hebrew word for "arrow" (חֵץ, chets) often denotes a swift and deadly weapon, emphasizing the suddenness of the downfall. The liver, being a vital organ, signifies the depth of the wound—both physically and spiritually. This phrase serves as a stark warning about the dangers of sin, illustrating how yielding to temptation can lead to severe and life-altering consequences.

like a bird darting into a snare
Here, the imagery shifts to that of a bird, symbolizing innocence or naivety, being caught in a trap. The Hebrew word for "snare" (מוֹקֵשׁ, moqesh) refers to a trap or a baited lure, often used to capture unsuspecting animals. This metaphor highlights the deceptive nature of sin, which often appears harmless or enticing but ultimately leads to entrapment. The bird's "darting" suggests impulsiveness or lack of foresight, a common human trait when faced with temptation. This phrase serves as a caution against acting without considering the potential consequences, urging believers to seek wisdom and discernment.

not knowing it will cost him his life
This final phrase underscores the tragic ignorance of the one who falls into sin. The Hebrew word for "life" (נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh) encompasses not just physical life but also the soul and one's entire being. The cost of sin is not merely physical death but spiritual death and separation from God. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the ultimate price of sin, which is far greater than one might initially perceive. It calls believers to be vigilant and aware of the spiritual stakes involved in their choices, emphasizing the importance of living a life aligned with God's wisdom and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Young Man
The primary subject of Proverbs 7, representing those who lack wisdom and discernment, easily led astray by temptation.

2. The Seductress
A metaphor for temptation and sin, personified as a woman who leads the young man astray.

3. The Arrow
Symbolizes the sudden and deadly consequences of sin.

4. The Snare
Represents the trap of sin, which seems harmless but leads to destruction.

5. The Liver
In ancient Hebrew thought, the liver was considered the seat of life, making its piercing a metaphor for mortal danger.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often appears harmless or even attractive, but its consequences are severe and life-threatening.

The Importance of Wisdom and Discernment
Like the young man, we must seek wisdom to recognize and avoid the snares of temptation.

The Suddenness of Consequences
Sin can lead to sudden and unexpected consequences, much like an arrow piercing the liver.

Guarding the Heart
We must guard our hearts against temptation, understanding that what seems minor can lead to spiritual death.

Seeking God's Protection
Rely on God's wisdom and protection to avoid the snares of sin, as He is our refuge and strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of an arrow piercing the liver help us understand the seriousness of sin's consequences?

2. In what ways can we apply the wisdom of Proverbs 7:23 to avoid falling into temptation in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of a "snare" in Proverbs 7:23 relate to other biblical warnings about sin and temptation?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate discernment and wisdom to recognize and resist temptation?

5. How can we rely on God's strength and wisdom to protect us from the snares of sin, as described in Psalm 91:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 5:22
This verse speaks about the wicked being ensnared by their own sins, similar to the imagery of the snare in Proverbs 7:23.

James 1:14-15
Describes the process of temptation leading to sin and ultimately to death, paralleling the progression seen in Proverbs 7.

Romans 6:23
Highlights the wages of sin being death, which aligns with the ultimate consequence depicted in Proverbs 7:23.

Psalm 91:3
Talks about God delivering from the snare of the fowler, offering a contrast to the entrapment described in Proverbs 7.