Proverbs 5:13

Proverbs 5:13 KJV captures the poignant lament of one who has suffered the bitter consequences of rejecting wise counsel. This verse is part of a father's urgent warning to his son about the perils of immorality, specifically the seductive allure of the adulterous woman.

Context

Within Proverbs chapter 5, the father meticulously details the destructive path of sexual sin, contrasting its fleeting pleasure with its devastating long-term effects. Verse 13 is spoken from the perspective of someone looking back with deep regret, realizing that their current suffering (described in verses 10-12 and 14) is a direct result of their past disobedience. It illustrates the painful outcome of choosing folly over the protective boundaries of wisdom and instruction in the context of avoiding moral pitfalls.

Key Themes

• The Bitterness of Regret: The verse powerfully expresses the profound sorrow and self-reproach that comes from realizing one's suffering is self-inflicted due to past foolish choices. It's a cry of "if only I had listened," highlighting the ultimate cost of disregarding sound advice.
• The Value of Wise Instruction: By highlighting the negative consequences of rejecting teachers, the verse implicitly underscores the immense value of heeding sound advice. It teaches that true wisdom, often delivered through mentors and instructors, is designed for protection and flourishing, preventing the bitter fruit of folly.
• Personal Accountability: The speaker takes full responsibility for their downfall ("I have not obeyed... nor inclined mine ear"), acknowledging that the failure was their own, not a fault of the instruction itself. This emphasizes the personal choice involved in accepting or rejecting wisdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrases used in this verse emphasize active and intentional rejection of guidance:

• "have not obeyed the voice" comes from the Hebrew verb shama (שָׁמַע), which means more than just hearing; it implies listening attentively with the intent to act or obey. The regret is for failing to truly heed and apply the instruction given.
• "nor inclined mine ear" uses the verb azan (אָזַן), meaning to listen carefully, to give heed, or to pay close attention. This reinforces the idea that the speaker actively chose not to engage with or seriously consider the instruction offered by their teachers.
• The "teachers" (morim) and "them that instructed me" (yoray) refer to those who impart knowledge, guidance, and moral wisdom, often parents, elders, or spiritual leaders in the community.

Related Scriptures

This verse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heeding wisdom, a central theme throughout Proverbs. The broader context of Proverbs repeatedly emphasizes the importance of fearing the LORD as the beginning of knowledge. This sentiment echoes the warning in Proverbs 1:24-33, where Lady Wisdom warns of the dire consequences for those who reject her counsel, leading to an inability to find help in their distress when calamity strikes.

Practical Application

Proverbs 5:13 offers a timeless caution for all generations. It urges us to:

1. Embrace Wise Counsel: Actively seek out and humbly receive instruction from parents, mentors, spiritual leaders, and especially the Word of God. Their guidance is a safeguard against destructive paths and a foundation for a flourishing life.
2. Prevent Regret: Understand that present choices have future consequences. Listening to wise counsel now can prevent immense pain and regret later, particularly in areas of moral integrity, financial stewardship, and relational health.
3. Cultivate Humility: Acknowledge that we do not know everything and that wisdom often comes through the diligent instruction of others. Pride often prevents us from inclining our ear to correction and learning from those who have walked the path before us.