Proverbs 30:20

Context

Proverbs 30:20 is part of a collection of wise sayings attributed to Agur, son of Jakeh, found in Proverbs chapter 30. This particular verse falls within a series of observations about things that are inscrutable or difficult to understand, or behaviors that are particularly insidious. While the preceding verses (18-19) speak of the mysterious "way of a man with a maid" and other natural wonders, verse 20 abruptly shifts to illustrate a morally reprehensible "way"—that of the adulterous woman. The book of Proverbs frequently warns against the dangers of sexual immorality, often personified as the "strange woman" or "immoral woman," whose path leads to destruction (e.g., Proverbs 2:16-19, Proverbs 5:3-6, Proverbs 7:6-27). This verse highlights not just the act, but the profound lack of conscience accompanying it.

Key Themes and Messages

• Deception and Denial: The core message is the casual nature of profound sin followed by a complete denial of wrongdoing. The phrase "she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness" vividly portrays someone who commits a grave offense, effortlessly conceals any trace, and then brazenly claims innocence. This illustrates a hardened conscience and a deep level of hypocrisy.
• Lack of Remorse or Guilt: Unlike someone who might feel regret or shame after sinning, the adulterous woman described here shows no sign of remorse. Her actions suggest that the sin is not only normalized but entirely dismissed as if it were a trivial matter. This casual attitude makes the offense even more egregious in the eyes of biblical wisdom.
• Hidden Sin vs. Divine Knowledge: While the act is hidden from human eyes and denied to human ears, the proverb implicitly reminds the reader that such behavior is not hidden from God. The wisdom literature frequently emphasizes God's omniscience, seeing all things, even those done in secret (e.g., Hebrews 4:13).

Linguistic Insights

The imagery of "she eateth, and wipeth her mouth" is highly metaphorical and potent. Eating is a common, often innocent act, but here it symbolizes the effortless and perhaps even pleasurable consumption of forbidden fruit (the act of adultery). "Wiping her mouth" signifies a clean, untraceable act, leaving no evidence or trace of the transgression. It's an act of covering up, of erasing the signs of guilt, much like a child might wipe away crumbs after secretly taking a treat. The Hebrew word for "wickedness" here is 'awon (עָוֹן), which refers to iniquity, guilt, or punishment for sin. Her denial of 'awon underscores a profound moral blindness or deliberate refusal to acknowledge her guilt.

Practical Application

Proverbs 30:20 serves as a powerful warning not only against sexual immorality but more broadly against the insidious nature of sin coupled with self-deception and denial. It challenges us to reflect on:

• The Dangers of a Hardened Conscience: When sin becomes so normalized that one can commit it and then casually deny it, the conscience has become seared. This verse calls believers to maintain a tender conscience, quick to acknowledge and repent of wrongdoing.
• The Importance of True Repentance: Genuine repentance involves acknowledging sin, feeling remorse, and seeking to turn away from it (Luke 13:3). This verse highlights the opposite: a complete absence of such a desire.
• Integrity and Honesty: The proverb implicitly calls for integrity and honesty before God and others. While the adulterous woman seeks to deceive, the path of wisdom is one of truthfulness and accountability.
• Recognizing Subtle Sins: While the example is stark, the principle applies to any sin we might try to rationalize, hide, or deny, pretending "I have done no wickedness." Wisdom urges us to confront our own hidden faults and seek purification.