Proverbs 22:14

Commentary on Proverbs 22:14 (KJV)

Proverbs 22:14 issues a stark warning, equating the enticing words of "strange women" with a deadly trap, and linking susceptibility to this danger with divine disfavor. This verse is part of the broader wisdom literature in Proverbs, which frequently contrasts the paths of wisdom and folly, often personified through the figures of Lady Wisdom and the seductive "strange woman."

Context

The book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom sayings, designed to impart practical guidance for living a righteous and prosperous life in covenant with God. Throughout Proverbs, particularly in chapters 1-9, there are repeated and vivid warnings against the "strange woman" or "adulteress." These warnings are not merely about avoiding sexual sin, but also about guarding one's heart, mind, and resources from any influence that leads away from God's truth and into destructive patterns. This particular verse fits within a section (Proverbs 22:17-24:34) often referred to as "The Sayings of the Wise," which offers various admonitions on moral conduct, social responsibility, and the consequences of one's choices.

Key Themes

• The Peril of Seduction: The "mouth of strange women" symbolizes the deceptive and alluring words, flattery, and promises that lead to moral compromise and ruin. It represents the powerful temptation of illicit pleasure and illicit relationships. This danger is portrayed as a "deep pit," a metaphor for an inescapable snare that leads to destruction, disgrace, and often financial ruin, as seen in Proverbs 23:27.
• Divine Judgment and Spiritual Vulnerability: The phrase "he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein" highlights a crucial spiritual dimension. It suggests that succumbing to such temptations is not merely a random misfortune but often a consequence of a prior spiritual condition. Those who are "abhorred of the LORD" (meaning under God's displeasure or indignation due to their own unrighteousness or rebellion) are left vulnerable to these destructive forces. God, in His justice, may allow those who have already turned from Him to experience the natural and spiritual consequences of their choices, underscoring the importance of living in His favor.
• Wisdom vs. Folly: Implicitly, the verse contrasts the wise person who avoids such pitfalls by adhering to God's commands with the foolish or rebellious individual who, through their own spiritual estrangement, becomes an easy prey for sin.

Linguistic Insights

• "Strange women" (Hebrew: zarah or nokriyah): While literally meaning "foreign woman," in the context of Proverbs, this term most often refers to an adulteress, harlot, or any woman outside the covenant of one's marriage. Her influence is seen as alien and destructive to the principles of godly living and family integrity.
• "Deep pit" (Hebrew: shaḥath): This word literally refers to a pit or a grave, but metaphorically it signifies destruction, corruption, or ruin. It emphasizes the inescapable and devastating nature of the trap.
• "Abhorred of the LORD" (Hebrew: za'am Yahweh): This phrase conveys divine indignation or wrath. It indicates that a person is under God's severe displeasure, not arbitrarily, but as a result of their persistent rebellion or wickedness.

Practical Application

Proverbs 22:14 offers timeless wisdom applicable today:

1. Guard Your Heart and Mind: The "mouth of strange women" can be understood broadly as any enticing influence that promises immediate gratification but leads to spiritual, moral, or physical destruction. This includes not only sexual temptation but also deceitful ideologies, corrupting entertainment, or manipulative relationships. We must be discerning and guard our thoughts and affections.
2. Cultivate a Strong Relationship with God: The verse powerfully links vulnerability to temptation with one's spiritual standing before God. A close walk with the Lord, characterized by obedience, humility, and seeking His will, provides a spiritual shield against destructive influences. Conversely, a lifestyle of rebellion or indifference to God's commands can leave one exposed to the enemy's snares. For more on the importance of seeking God's favor, consider Psalm 1:6.
3. Understand the Consequences of Sin: The "deep pit" serves as a vivid reminder that sin has real and often severe consequences. While God is merciful, He also allows individuals to reap what they sow, especially when they persist in disobedience.
4. Seek Repentance and Restoration: For those who may feel estranged from God or caught in a "pit" of sin, the pathway to freedom and God's favor is through genuine repentance and seeking His forgiveness and guidance.