The term "adulteress" or "strange woman" in the Bible often refers to a woman who engages in sexual immorality, particularly one who entices or leads others into adultery. This figure is frequently used in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament as a metaphor for folly and unfaithfulness to God.

Old Testament References:

1. Proverbs: The book of Proverbs provides the most extensive treatment of the adulteress or strange woman. She is depicted as a seductive and dangerous figure who leads men away from the path of righteousness. Proverbs 5:3-5 warns, "Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil, in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to Sheol."

2. Proverbs 7: This chapter offers a vivid narrative of a young man being seduced by an adulteress. Proverbs 7:21-23 states, "With her great persuasion she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him. He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap, until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare—not knowing it will cost him his life."

3. Proverbs 2:16-19: The adulteress is described as one who "forsakes the partner of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God." Her house "sinks down to death, and her tracks lead to the departed spirits."

4. Proverbs 6:24-29: This passage warns against the allure of the adulteress, emphasizing the destructive consequences of succumbing to her temptations. "Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without scorching his feet?"

Symbolism and Themes:

· Folly and Wisdom: The adulteress is often contrasted with Lady Wisdom in Proverbs. While Lady Wisdom leads to life and understanding, the adulteress leads to death and destruction. This contrast serves as a moral lesson on the importance of choosing wisdom and fidelity to God's commandments.

· Unfaithfulness to God: The adulteress is also symbolic of Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Just as an adulteress betrays her husband, Israel is depicted as betraying God by turning to idolatry and false gods. This theme is prevalent in the prophetic literature, where Israel's spiritual adultery is condemned.

New Testament References:

1. John 8:3-11: The account of the woman caught in adultery is a significant New Testament narrative. The scribes and Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery to Jesus, seeking to test Him. Jesus responds, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her." This passage highlights themes of mercy, forgiveness, and the call to repentance.

2. James 4:4: The language of adultery is used metaphorically to describe friendship with the world as enmity with God. "You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?"

Moral and Ethical Teachings:

The figure of the adulteress serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of sexual immorality and unfaithfulness. The Bible consistently warns against the seductive allure of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God's commandments. The adulteress is a reminder of the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness and the need for vigilance in maintaining moral integrity.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israelite society, adultery was a serious offense, often punishable by death. The portrayal of the adulteress in the Bible reflects the cultural and legal norms of the time, emphasizing the gravity of sexual sin and its impact on individuals and the community. The warnings against the adulteress also reflect the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness, both in human relationships and in the relationship between God and His people.