Proverbs 9:17

"Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is tasty!"

Study Bible

Stolen water
This phrase evokes the imagery of something taken illicitly, suggesting an act of theft or deceit. In the Hebrew context, "water" often symbolizes life, sustenance, and purity. The act of stealing water implies a violation of trust and a pursuit of satisfaction through wrongful means. Historically, water was a precious resource in the arid regions of the ancient Near East, making its theft a serious offense. Spiritually, this phrase warns against seeking fulfillment in ways that are contrary to God's commandments, highlighting the allure of sin and its deceptive promise of satisfaction.

is sweet
The sweetness of stolen water represents the initial pleasure or thrill that comes from engaging in forbidden activities. This sweetness is deceptive, as it masks the eventual bitterness and consequences of sin. The Hebrew word for "sweet" can also imply something pleasant or desirable, which aligns with the human tendency to be drawn to what is forbidden. This phrase serves as a caution against the temporary and misleading nature of sinful pleasures, urging believers to seek true satisfaction in righteousness and obedience to God.

and bread eaten in secret
Bread, a staple of life, symbolizes basic sustenance and provision. Eating it "in secret" suggests an act of concealment, hinting at guilt or shame associated with the action. In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, sharing a meal was a communal and open activity, so eating in secret implies a breach of community and trust. This phrase warns against the isolation and hidden nature of sin, which often leads individuals away from fellowship with God and others.

is pleasant
The word "pleasant" here underscores the temporary enjoyment derived from secretive or sinful actions. However, this pleasure is fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. The Hebrew root of "pleasant" can also mean agreeable or delightful, which reflects the seductive nature of sin. This phrase serves as a reminder that while sin may seem enjoyable at first, it ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness and separation from God. The verse as a whole encourages believers to seek lasting joy and fulfillment in God's ways, rather than in the deceptive allure of sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. Proverbs is a collection of his wise sayings and teachings.

2. Lady Folly
In Proverbs 9, Lady Folly is personified as a seductive figure who entices individuals away from wisdom and righteousness. She represents foolishness and sin.

3. The Simple
This term refers to those who are naive or lack discernment. They are easily swayed by temptation and deception.

4. The House of Folly
Symbolically, this is the place where foolishness and sin reside. It contrasts with the house of wisdom, which offers life and understanding.

5. The Path of Sin
This is the metaphorical journey one takes when succumbing to temptation and folly, leading away from God's wisdom and righteousness.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Allure of Sin
Sin often appears attractive and desirable, much like "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret." However, its sweetness is temporary and leads to destruction.

The Importance of Discernment
Believers must cultivate discernment to recognize and resist the seductive call of folly. This requires a deep understanding of God's Word and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

The Consequences of Folly
Engaging in sin may seem pleasurable at the moment, but it ultimately leads to spiritual death and separation from God.

The Call to Wisdom
Proverbs encourages us to seek wisdom, which leads to life and understanding. This involves making choices that align with God's will and righteousness.

Accountability and Community
Engaging in secretive sin often isolates individuals. Christians are called to live in community, holding each other accountable and encouraging one another in righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allure of "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret" manifest in today's society, and what are some practical ways to resist these temptations?

2. In what ways can we cultivate discernment to recognize the deceptive nature of sin, as described in Proverbs 9:17?

3. How does the account of Eve's temptation in Genesis 3 relate to the message of Proverbs 9:17, and what lessons can we learn from it?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a choice between wisdom and folly. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your spiritual journey?

5. How can Christian community and accountability help us avoid the path of folly and stay committed to the path of wisdom?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The temptation of Eve by the serpent parallels the allure of "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret," highlighting the deceptive nature of sin.

James 1:14-15
This passage discusses how desire leads to sin, and sin leads to death, echoing the consequences of following Lady Folly.

Matthew 7:13-14
The narrow and wide gates illustrate the choice between wisdom and folly, life and destruction.