Proverbs 6 provides a series of practical warnings covering financial entanglements, laziness, deceit, and immorality. Solomon emphasizes the consequences of poor decisions and urges his readers to embrace wisdom, diligence, and integrity.

Through vivid imagery and stern admonitions, the chapter outlines the dangers of foolish behavior and calls for responsible living according to God’s principles.

Proverbs 6:1-5 – The Danger of Financial Entanglements

“My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger, thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, have given your pledge for a stranger, if you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth.”

Commentary: Solomon warns against impulsively guaranteeing another person’s debt. Becoming a financial guarantor can lead to unforeseen consequences and burdens. He advises immediate action to free oneself from such entanglements.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Surety” (עָרַב, arab) – This term refers to taking responsibility for another’s debt or obligation, which often led to personal financial ruin.
  • “Snared” (יָקַשׁ, yaqash) – To be caught in a trap, emphasizing the loss of control once a pledge is made.

Application: In today’s world, signing financial guarantees without careful consideration can lead to financial distress. This passage advises prudence and responsibility in financial dealings.

Proverbs 6:6-11 – The Sluggard’s Fate

“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”

  • NIV: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
  • KJV: “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.”
  • ESV: “Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”

Commentary: Solomon uses the example of the ant to highlight the value of hard work and preparation. Unlike the lazy person, the ant instinctively works ahead, securing provisions for the future.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Sluggard” (עָצֵל, atzel) – A term referring to a lazy or idle person who avoids work and responsibility.
  • “Harvest” (קָצִיר, qatsir) – Symbolizes the importance of planning and taking advantage of opportunities.

Application: Diligence and foresight are essential virtues. Procrastination leads to lack and hardship, while hard work results in security and success.

Proverbs 6:12-19 – The Wicked Man and the Seven Abominations

“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood…”

  • NIV: “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood.”
  • KJV: “These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.”
  • ESV: “There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.”

Commentary: This passage lists behaviors that God abhors, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and truthfulness in one’s character.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Abomination” (תוֹעֵבָה, to’evah) – A term for something detestable or morally reprehensible.
  • “Lying tongue” (שׁוֹקֵר, sheqer) – Refers to deceitful speech that causes harm and discord.

Application: Aligning one’s life with God’s principles leads to blessings, while wickedness invites divine judgment.

General Overview of Proverbs 6

Proverbs 6 provides practical wisdom for daily living, covering themes of financial responsibility, diligence, and moral integrity. It highlights the dangers of laziness, deceit, and reckless commitments.

Key Takeaways:

  • Avoid financial entanglements that may lead to unnecessary burdens.
  • Hard work and planning lead to success, while laziness results in poverty.
  • God despises dishonesty, pride, and violence.

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.