Proverbs 6:15

Proverbs 6:15 issues a stark warning regarding the inevitable and swift consequences of persistent wickedness. It declares, "Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy." This verse serves as a powerful culmination of the preceding descriptions of a deceitful and destructive individual, emphasizing the divine certainty and irreversible nature of judgment for those who reject wisdom and righteousness.

Context

This verse directly follows a detailed description of a "naughty person, a wicked man" who walks with a "froward mouth" and "deviseth mischief continually" (Proverbs 6:12-14). The word "Therefore" in verse 15 links the described character and actions directly to their unavoidable outcome. The passage then proceeds to list seven things that are an abomination to the Lord in Proverbs 6:16-19, further illustrating the nature of the wickedness that incurs such severe judgment. The wisdom literature often contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, and this verse clearly outlines the ultimate fate of the latter.

Key Themes

• Sudden and Inescapable Judgment: The repetition of "suddenly" underscores the unexpected and swift arrival of ruin. There is no time for preparation, escape, or repentance once this judgment falls. It highlights the deceptive nature of sin, which often promises delayed consequences, only to deliver them without warning.
• Irreversible Consequences: The phrase "without remedy" is crucial. It signifies a state of complete and utter brokenness from which there is no recovery, no healing, and no possibility of restoration. This is not a temporary setback but a final and definitive downfall.
• Divine Justice: The verse asserts a fundamental principle of God's moral universe: actions have consequences. While God is patient and longsuffering (Romans 2:4, 2 Peter 3:9), there is a limit to His forbearance, and ultimately, justice will be served. This aligns with the principle of sowing and reaping.

Linguistic Insights

• "Calamity" (Hebrew: êyd - אֵיד): This word denotes disaster, ruin, or misfortune. It speaks of a devastating event or condition that overtakes a person.
• "Broken" (Hebrew: shabar - שָׁבַר): Means to break, shatter, or crush. It implies complete destruction, often with an emphasis on the physical or structural integrity being destroyed beyond repair.
• "Without remedy" (Hebrew: 'ên marpe' - אֵין מַרְפֵּא): The Hebrew word marpe' refers to healing, cure, or remedy. Coupled with 'ên (no/without), it powerfully conveys absolute incurability and hopelessness.

Practical Application

Proverbs 6:15 serves as a solemn warning and a call to introspection. It teaches that:

1. Sin's Deceptive Nature: While sin may seem to offer temporary pleasure or advantage, its ultimate outcome is destructive and irreversible. The "suddenly" reminds us that judgment often comes when least expected.
2. The Importance of Repentance: The verse implicitly urges a turning away from wickedness before it's too late. The "without remedy" aspect highlights the urgency of seeking God's mercy and wisdom while there is still opportunity.
3. God's Moral Order: It reinforces the biblical truth that God is just and that persistent rebellion against His ways will inevitably lead to ruin. This principle is echoed in other scriptures, such as Proverbs 29:1 ("He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.") and the New Testament warning of sudden destruction for those who reject God.

This verse encourages believers to live righteously, understanding the severe consequences of choosing a path of deliberate and unrepentant wickedness, and to warn others of the peril of such a choice.