5:14 5:14

Proverbs 5:15

5:16 5:16

Bible Versions

¶ Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
Drink {H8354} waters {H4325} out of thine own cistern {H953}, and running waters {H5140} out of {H8432} thine own well {H875}.
Drink the water from your own cistern, fresh water from your own well.
Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well.
Drink waters out of thine own cistern, And running waters out of thine own well.

Context

Proverbs 5 is a stark warning from a father to his son about the perils of sexual immorality and the destructive consequences of infidelity. The preceding verses (Proverbs 5:3-14) vividly describe the seductive nature and bitter end of an adulterous affair, culminating in ruin and regret. Verse 15 then pivots, offering a positive, preventative antidote to these dangers: finding complete satisfaction and joy within the bounds of one's own marriage.

Key Themes

  • Marital Fidelity and Exclusivity: The core message is a powerful call to sexual purity and faithfulness within marriage. The "cistern" and "well" are metaphors for one's spouse, emphasizing that all legitimate sexual intimacy and satisfaction should be found exclusively with that one person.
  • Satisfaction Within Marriage: "Drink waters" implies refreshment, fulfillment, and deep pleasure. The verse encourages finding abundant joy and contentment in the marital relationship, suggesting that a committed union provides all the necessary satisfaction. This theme is reinforced by Proverbs 5:18, which advises rejoicing with the wife of one's youth.
  • Prevention of Adultery: By promoting deep, fulfilling intimacy within marriage, the verse implicitly serves as a strong deterrent against the temptation to seek satisfaction elsewhere. It highlights that the "waters" outside one's own well are forbidden and ultimately unsatisfying.

Linguistic Insights

In the arid ancient Near East, a "cistern" (a rock-cut reservoir for collecting rainwater) and a "well" (a shaft dug to access groundwater) were vital, personal, and highly valued sources of life-sustaining water. Their ownership implied exclusive access and control. The imagery of "running waters" suggests a fresh, continually flowing, and invigorating source, contrasting sharply with stagnant or polluted external sources. This metaphor powerfully conveys the precious, private, and continually refreshing nature of marital intimacy when kept pure and exclusive.

Related Scriptures

The wisdom of Proverbs consistently champions fidelity and warns against sexual sin. This verse serves as a direct counter-command to the allure of the adulteress detailed earlier in the chapter (Proverbs 5:8). The New Testament echoes this emphasis on marital sanctity, proclaiming that marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled. Furthermore, Paul's instructions regarding marital duties and mutual satisfaction (1 Corinthians 7:3-5) align with the idea of finding fulfillment within the marital bond to prevent temptation.

Practical Application

For believers today, Proverbs 5:15 is a timeless call to cultivate and cherish the intimacy within their marriage. It challenges individuals to actively invest in their relationship, fostering trust, communication, and physical affection with their spouse. It serves as a powerful reminder that true and lasting satisfaction is found in commitment and exclusivity within the marital covenant, discouraging any pursuit of emotional or physical fulfillment outside of it. This verse encourages a proactive approach to marital health, emphasizing contentment and gratitude for the spouse God has given.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:2

    Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:5

    Defraud ye not one the other, except [it be] with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.

  • Hebrews 13:4

    Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

  • Proverbs 5:18

    Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.

  • Proverbs 5:19

    [Let her be as] the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
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