Proverbs 9:18

But they do not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.

Study Bible

But they do not know
This phrase highlights the ignorance or lack of awareness of those who are enticed by folly. In the Hebrew text, the word for "know" is "yada," which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. The use of "do not know" suggests a willful ignorance or a spiritual blindness. In a conservative Christian perspective, this can be seen as a warning against the dangers of ignoring divine wisdom and the consequences of sin. The lack of knowledge here is not just intellectual but moral and spiritual, indicating a separation from God's truth.

that the dead are there
The term "dead" in Hebrew is "rephaim," which can refer to shades or spirits of the dead, often associated with a state of powerlessness or inactivity. This phrase serves as a stark warning that those who follow the path of folly are essentially aligning themselves with death. In a broader biblical context, death is often symbolic of separation from God, the source of life. The imagery here is vivid, suggesting that the house of folly is not just a place of poor choices but a realm of spiritual death.

that her guests
The word "guests" implies those who have accepted an invitation, suggesting a voluntary association with folly. In the Hebrew context, a guest is someone who partakes in the hospitality of another, indicating a level of comfort or acceptance. This phrase warns that those who choose to associate with folly are not merely passersby but have become part of her household. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this serves as a caution against becoming comfortable with sin and the ways of the world.

are in the depths of Sheol
"Sheol" is a Hebrew term often translated as the grave or the abode of the dead. It represents a place of darkness and separation from the living. The "depths of Sheol" suggests the lowest parts, emphasizing the severity and finality of the consequences of following folly. In the biblical narrative, Sheol is often depicted as a place devoid of God's presence, reinforcing the idea that choosing folly leads to spiritual death and eternal separation from God. This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking wisdom and aligning oneself with God's ways to avoid such a fate.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Simple
In the context of Proverbs, the simple are those who lack wisdom and discernment. They are easily led astray by folly.

2. Folly
Personified as a woman in Proverbs 9, Folly represents foolishness and the seductive nature of sin that leads people away from wisdom and righteousness.

3. The Dead
Refers to those who have succumbed to the ways of folly and are spiritually dead, separated from the life that wisdom offers.

4. Sheol
In Hebrew thought, Sheol is the realm of the dead, a place of darkness and separation from God. It symbolizes the ultimate consequence of following folly.

5. Wisdom's Banquet
In contrast to Folly's invitation, Wisdom also invites people to a banquet, offering life and understanding to those who accept her call.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often appears attractive and harmless, but its end is spiritual death. Believers must be vigilant and discerning, recognizing the true nature of folly.

The Importance of Wisdom
Wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge but a way of life that aligns with God's will. Pursuing wisdom leads to life, while ignoring it leads to destruction.

The Consequences of Choices
Every choice has consequences. Choosing folly leads to separation from God, while choosing wisdom leads to life and peace.

The Call to Discernment
Christians are called to discern between the voices of wisdom and folly. This requires a deep relationship with God and a commitment to His Word.

The Reality of Spiritual Realms
The Bible speaks of spiritual realities like Sheol, reminding us that our choices have eternal implications. We must live with an awareness of these truths.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "the dead" and "Sheol" in Proverbs 9:18 help us understand the consequences of following folly?

2. In what ways can we discern the voice of wisdom from the voice of folly in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of Sheol in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament teachings on eternal separation from God?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are accepting Wisdom's invitation rather than Folly's?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message of Proverbs 9:18 regarding the choices between life and death?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 7:27
This verse also speaks of the path to Sheol, connecting the seductive nature of sin with its deadly consequences.

Matthew 7:13-14
Jesus speaks of the narrow and wide gates, paralleling the choice between wisdom and folly, life and destruction.

Ephesians 5:15-17
Paul urges believers to walk wisely, making the most of every opportunity, contrasting the life of wisdom with the folly that leads to spiritual death.