1 My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,

2 Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

3 Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.

4 Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.

5 Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.

6 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

7 Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,

8 Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.

9 How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?

10 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

11 So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.

12 A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.

13 He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers;

14 Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.

15 Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.

16 These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

20 My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

21 Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.

22 When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.

23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

24 To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.

25 Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.

26 For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adultress will hunt for the precious life.

27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?

28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?

29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.

30 Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;

31 But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.

32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.

33 A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.

34 For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.

35 He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Cautions against rash suretyship.
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt. If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven, much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him, make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be kept from going down to the pit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Surety - Rashly, without considering how thou shalt discharge the debt as occasion require. Otherwise suretyship in some cases may be not only lawful, but an act of justice and charity. Stricken thy hand - Obliged thyself by giving thine hand, as the custom then was in such cases. With - With the creditor, whom he calls a stranger, because the usurers in Israel, who lent money to others, upon condition of paying use for it, were either Heathens, or were reputed as bad as Heathens, because this practice was forbidden by God's law, (Deuteronomy 23:19) .
McArther Bible Commentary
surety … pledge. The foolishness here is making one's self responsible for another's debt and pledging to pay if the other defaults (cf. Pro 11:15; Pro 17:18; Pro 20:16; Pro 22:26). While there is precedent for such a practice, it is far better to give to those in need (see Deu 15:1-15; Deu 19:17) or lend without interest (see Lev 25:35-38; Pro 28:8).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:2 Proverbs 11:15 Proverbs 17:18 Proverbs 20:16 Proverbs 22:26 Proverbs 27:13 Isaiah 2:6

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Cautions against rash suretyship.
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt. If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven, much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him, make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be kept from going down to the pit.
McArther Bible Commentary
snared … come into the hand. Cf. Pro 22:26-27. Anyone who becomes responsible for another person's debt is trapped and controlled because he has yielded control of what God has given him as a stewardship. The situation is so serious that it is imperative to take control of one's own God-given resources and get out of such an intolerable arrangement immediately ("deliver yourself," Pro 6:3-4) before coming to poverty or slavery. Cf. Gen 43:9; Gen 44:32-33.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 7:25 Proverbs 6:1 Proverbs 6:3

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Cautions against rash suretyship.
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt. If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven, much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him, make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be kept from going down to the pit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hand - Into the power. Friend - Of the debtor, for whom, as being thy friend, thou didst become surety; whereby thou art in his power, by his neglect or unfaithfulness, to expose thee to the payment of the debt. Make sure - Or, and prevail with thy friend, strive to win him by thine incessant and earnest solicitations.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:2 Proverbs 6:4

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Cautions against rash suretyship.
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt. If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven, much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him, make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be kept from going down to the pit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Give not sleep - Until thou hast taken care for the discharge of this obligation.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 132:4 Proverbs 6:3

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Cautions against rash suretyship.
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt. If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven, much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him, make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be kept from going down to the pit.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 91:3 Psalm 124:7 Song of Solomon 2:7 Song of Solomon 2:9

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Ant Industry Reproaches Idleness
—[Proverbs 6:6 quoted.] The habitations which the ants build for themselves show skill and perseverance. Only one little grain at a time can they handle, but by diligence and perseverance they accomplish wonders. Solomon presents to the world the industry of the ant as a reproach to those who waste their hours in sinful idleness, in practices which corrupt soul and body. The ant prepares for future seasons. This is a lesson which many gifted with reasoning powers disregard. They fail entirely to prepare for the future immortal life which God has in His providence secured for the fallen race (Manuscript 35, 1899).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Go - This is a distinct precept; and it is for the most part as needless to seek, as hard to find, coherence in the proverbs.
McArther Bible Commentary
A warning against laziness is appropriate after the discussion on the folly of guaranteeing someone else's debt, since it is often lazy people who want sureties.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:9 Proverbs 10:26 Proverbs 13:4 Proverbs 20:4 Proverbs 23:19 Proverbs 26:16 Proverbs 30:24 Proverbs 30:25 Jeremiah 8:7

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 30:27 Proverbs 6:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:9 Proverbs 10:5

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:6 Proverbs 6:8 Proverbs 6:10 Proverbs 19:15 Proverbs 20:13 Proverbs 26:14

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:9 Proverbs 19:15 Proverbs 20:13 Proverbs 23:21 Proverbs 24:33 Ecclesiastes 4:5

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A rebuke to slothfulness.
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near, like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Travelleth - Swiftly and unexpectedly. Armed man - Irresistibly.
McArther Bible Commentary
prowler … armed man. The lazy man, with his inordinate devotion to sleep rather than work (Pro 6:9-10), learns too late, thus coming to inescapable poverty just as a victim is overpowered by a robber (see Pro 24:33-34). While laziness leads to poverty (cf. Pro 10:4-5; Pro 13:4; Pro 20:4, Pro 20:13), laziness is not always the cause of poverty (cf. Pro 14:31; Pro 17:5; Pro 19:1, Pro 19:17, Pro 19:22; Pro 21:12; Pro 28:3, Pro 28:11).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 23:21 Proverbs 24:34

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
McArther Bible Commentary
A worthless person. A scoundrel (1Sa 25:25; Job 34:18), lit. a "man of Belial" (useless; cf. 1Sa 2:12; 1Sa 30:22), a term which came to be used of the devil himself (see 2Co 6:15).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:12 Proverbs 4:24 Proverbs 8:13 Proverbs 10:32 Proverbs 16:27

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
McArther Bible Commentary
winks … shuffles … points. Apparently, this was common in the Near East. Fearing detection, and to hide his intention, the deceiver spoke lies to the victim while giving signals with his eyes, hands, and feet to someone else who was in on the deception to carry out the intrigue.
Bible Cross References
Job 15:12 Psalm 35:19 Proverbs 10:10 Isaiah 58:9

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
McArther Bible Commentary
discord. The sin of strife, dissent, or creating conflict intentionally recurs in Proverbs (Pro 15:18; Pro 16:28; Pro 17:14; Pro 18:19; Pro 21:9, Pro 21:19; Pro 22:10; Pro 23:29; Pro 25:24; Pro 26:21; Pro 27:15; Pro 28:25; Pro 29:22).
Bible Cross References
Psalm 140:2 Proverbs 3:29 Proverbs 6:19 Proverbs 16:27 Proverbs 16:28 Proverbs 17:20 Proverbs 24:8 Micah 2:1

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
McArther Bible Commentary
without remedy. The results of iniquity can be irreversible. A person's punishment will fit his crime when God judges.
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 36:16 Psalm 55:15 Proverbs 1:26 Proverbs 6:16 Proverbs 14:32 Proverbs 24:16 Proverbs 24:22 Proverbs 29:1 Isaiah 30:13 Isaiah 30:14 Jeremiah 19:11

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hate - Above many other sins which have a worse name in the world.
McArther Bible Commentary
six … seven. The sequence of these two numbers was used both to represent totality and as a means of arresting one's attention (cf. Pro 30:15, Pro 30:18; Job 5:19; Amo 1:3) These seven detestable sins provide a profound glimpse into the sinfulness of man. These verses act as a summary of the previous warnings: (1) haughty eyes (Pro 6:13 ,"winks"); (2) lying tongue (Pro 6:12, "perverse mouth"); (3) hands (Pro 6:13, "fingers"); (4) heart (Pro 6:14); (5) feet (Pro 6:13); (6) false witness (Pro 6:12); and (7) discord (Pro 6:14).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:15 Proverbs 6:17 Jeremiah 26:15 Zechariah 8:17

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 19:10 Psalm 18:27 Psalm 31:18 Psalm 101:5 Psalm 120:2 Proverbs 1:16 Proverbs 6:16 Proverbs 12:22 Proverbs 17:7 Proverbs 21:4 Proverbs 28:17 Proverbs 30:13 Isaiah 1:15 Isaiah 59:7 Jeremiah 26:15

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Deviseth - He whose practice it is to contrive wickedness. Swift - Such as greedily execute their wicked designs.
Bible Cross References
Romans 3:15 Genesis 6:5 Proverbs 1:16 Proverbs 24:2 Isaiah 59:7

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Seven things hateful to God.
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief. Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them, whatever may be their rank.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 27:12 Proverbs 6:14 Proverbs 12:17 Proverbs 14:5 Proverbs 19:5 Proverbs 19:9 Proverbs 21:28

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The law - The word of God, which thy parents delivered to thee.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Pro 3:1, Pro 3:3.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 6:1 Proverbs 1:8 Proverbs 7:1 Jeremiah 35:8

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Bind them - Constantly remember, and duly consider them.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 6:8 Proverbs 3:3 Proverbs 7:3

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
It - The law of God which thy parents have taught thee. Talk - It shall give thee counsel and comfort.
McArther Bible Commentary
roam … sleep … awake. Cf. Pro 3:23-24. This parallels the three circumstances of life in Deu 6:6-9; Deu 11:18-20, for which wisdom provides direction, protection, and meditation. The biblical instruction for parents addresses the possible entrance of evil by supplying good and true thoughts, even when sleeping.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:11 Proverbs 3:23 Proverbs 3:24

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
McArther Bible Commentary
the commandment … the law … instruction. Each term refers to the Word of God, which provides the wisdom leading to abundant and eternal life (cf. Psa 19:7-9).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 39:8 Psalm 19:8 Psalm 119:105 Psalm 119:130 Proverbs 10:17 Ecclesiastes 7:5 Ecclesiastes 7:26

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Pro 2:16; Pro 5:3. Parental instruction in wisdom is crucial to strengthen a person against the strong attraction of sexual sin. By loving truth and being elevated to wisdom, men are not seduced by lying flattery.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 39:8 Proverbs 2:16 Proverbs 5:3 Proverbs 5:20 Proverbs 7:5 Proverbs 7:21 Ecclesiastes 7:26

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Eye - lids - With her wanton glances,
McArther Bible Commentary
lust. Sexual sin is rooted in lust (imagination of the sinful act), as implied in Exo 20:17 and addressed by Christ in Mat 5:28. This initial attraction must be consistently rejected (Jas 1:14-15).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:28 2 Kings 9:30 Jeremiah 4:30 Ezekiel 23:40

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
McArther Bible Commentary
crust of bread. Here, the smallest piece of bread demonstrates how the prostitute reduces the life of a man to insignificance, including the loss of his wealth (see Pro 29:3), freedom, family, purity, dignity, and even his soul (Pro 6:32).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 5:9 Proverbs 5:10 Proverbs 6:27 Proverbs 7:23 Proverbs 23:28 Proverbs 29:3 Ezekiel 13:18

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
McArther Bible Commentary
Powerful metaphors are given here to describe the obvious danger and destructive consequences of adultery, showing that punishment is a natural and expected consequence.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:26 Proverbs 6:28

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:27 Proverbs 6:29

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
McArther Bible Commentary
touches her. This refers to a touch intended to inflame sexual passion. Paul uses the same expression with the same meaning in 1Co 7:1.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 20:17 Leviticus 18:20 Proverbs 6:28 Proverbs 16:5 Ezekiel 18:6 Ezekiel 33:26

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despise - Abhor, but rather pity him.
McArther Bible Commentary
Adultery is compared to a thief. Unlike the pity extended to a starving thief, who can make restitution (even if it costs all that he has) and put the crime behind him permanently (Pro 6:30-31), there is no restitution for the adulterer as he destroys his soul (Pro 6:32; cf. Deu 22:22). If he lives, he is disgraced for life (Pro 6:33) with a reproach that will never go away. The jealous husband will have no mercy on him either (Pro 6:34-35; cf. Pro 27:4; Son 8:6).
Bible Cross References
Job 38:39 Proverbs 30:9

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Restore - He speaks not of that restitution which the law required, but of that which either the wronged person might force the thief to make, or which the thief would willingly give rather than be exposed to public shame.
McArther Bible Commentary
sevenfold. Varying measures of restitution occur in Scripture (cf. Exo 22:1 ff.; Lev 6:5; Num 5:7; 2Sa 12:6; Luk 19:8), but for the thief, it is severe.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 4:15 Exodus 22:1 Psalm 79:12

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:33 Proverbs 7:7 Proverbs 7:22 Proverbs 7:23 Proverbs 9:4 Proverbs 9:16 Proverbs 10:13 Proverbs 10:21 Proverbs 11:12 Proverbs 12:11 Proverbs 24:30

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:32 Proverbs 6:34

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Rage - It enflames a man with rage. In the day - When he hath an opportunity to avenge himself.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 39:19 Numbers 5:14 Proverbs 6:33 Proverbs 6:35 Proverbs 11:4 Proverbs 27:4 Song of Solomon 8:6 Isaiah 13:17

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments.
The word of God has something to say to us upon all occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated. Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives, and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or affections.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:34 Proverbs 7:1 Song of Solomon 8:7 Isaiah 13:17