Proverbs 5 is a solemn warning against the dangers of adultery and the consequences of immoral choices. Solomon urges his readers to seek wisdom and remain faithful in their relationships.

The chapter contrasts the deceptive allure of sin with the lasting blessings of marital fidelity. Through vivid imagery and strong admonitions, Solomon emphasizes the importance of discretion, integrity, and obedience to God’s commands.

Proverbs 5:1-2 – The Call to Wisdom

“My son, pay attention to my wisdom, turn your ear to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “My son, pay attention to my wisdom, turn your ear to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding: That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “My son, be attentive to my wisdom; incline your ear to my understanding, that you may keep discretion, and your lips may guard knowledge.”

Commentary: Solomon begins this chapter by urging his son to listen carefully to wisdom. This sets the tone for the entire passage, emphasizing discernment and self-control, particularly in the area of moral purity.

Application: In today’s world, where temptations are rampant, paying attention to wisdom helps us navigate relationships with integrity. Avoiding compromise requires deliberate effort and guidance from God’s word.

Proverbs 5:3-6 – The Seduction of the Adulterous Woman

“For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.”

  • NIV: “For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.”
  • KJV: “For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword.”
  • ESV: “For the lips of a forbidden woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil, but in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword.”

Commentary: Solomon warns that temptation often appears enticing at first but leads to destruction. The imagery of honey and oil contrasts with the ultimate bitterness and danger of sin.

Application: Many sinful choices seem harmless at first but bring devastating consequences. Recognizing the true nature of temptation helps us make wise decisions.

Proverbs 5:7-14 – The Cost of Immorality

“Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house, lest you lose your honor to others and your dignity to one who is cruel.”

  • NIV: “Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house, lest you lose your honor to others and your dignity to one who is cruel.”
  • KJV: “Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house: Lest thou give thine honor unto others, and thy years unto the cruel.”
  • ESV: “Keep your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house, lest you give your honor to others and your years to the merciless.”

Commentary: Solomon stresses that avoiding temptation altogether is the best defense. Falling into immorality leads to regret, loss of reputation, and ruin.

Application: Maintaining personal boundaries and accountability helps us stay on the path of righteousness. Small compromises can lead to great losses.

Proverbs 5:15-20 – The Blessing of Marital Faithfulness

“Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well.”

  • NIV: “Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well.”
  • KJV: “Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.”
  • ESV: “Drink water from your own cistern, flowing water from your own well.”

Commentary: Solomon uses the metaphor of water to illustrate the beauty and exclusivity of marriage. True fulfillment comes from honoring the commitment to one’s spouse.

Application: In a world that promotes temporary pleasure, cherishing and investing in marital relationships provides lasting joy and stability.

Proverbs 5:21-23 – The Consequences of Sin

“For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths.”

  • NIV: “For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths.”
  • KJV: “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.”
  • ESV: “For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the LORD, and he ponders all his paths.”

Commentary: Nothing is hidden from God. He sees all actions, and sin carries inevitable consequences.

Application: Living with the awareness of God’s presence encourages integrity. Personal choices impact not only the individual but also relationships and spiritual well-being.

General Overview of Proverbs 5

Proverbs 5 provides a strong warning against adultery, emphasizing the destructive consequences of immoral choices and the beauty of marital faithfulness.

Word Study & Analysis:

Key Hebrew Terms in Proverbs 5

  • “Discretion” (מְזִמָּה, mezimmah) – This word carries the meaning of foresight, planning, and strategic thinking. In Proverbs 5, it refers to the ability to make wise decisions and avoid moral pitfalls.
  • “Adulterous woman” (זָרָה, zarah) – Translated as “strange woman” or “forbidden woman,” it refers to someone outside the covenant of marriage, warning against illicit relationships.
  • “Bitter” (מָרוֹר, maror) – This word signifies deep sorrow or grief, highlighting the ultimate pain and regret that follows sin.
  • “Cistern” (בּוֹר, bor) – Used metaphorically to represent a legitimate, blessed source of satisfaction, as in the context of a faithful marital relationship.

Key Takeaways:

  • Temptation appears appealing but leads to destruction.
  • Avoiding compromising situations prevents great loss.
  • Marital faithfulness brings true fulfillment.
  • God sees all actions, and sin has consequences.

References

  • HENRY, Matthew. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged. Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
  • KIDNER, Derek. Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, 1981.
  • WIERSBE, Warren W. Be Skillful (Proverbs): God’s Guidebook to Wise Living. David C. Cook, 1995.