Proverbs 6:26

KJV

For by means of a whorish woman [a man is brought] to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.

KJV (with Strong's)

For by means of {H1157} a whorish {H2181} woman {H802} a man is brought to a piece {H3603} of bread {H3899}: and the adulteress {H802}{H376} will hunt {H6679} for the precious {H3368} life {H5315}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The price of a whore is a loaf of bread, but the adulteress is hunting for a precious life.

Berean Standard Bible

For the levy of the prostitute is poverty, and the adulteress preys upon your very life.

American Standard Version

For on account of a harlota man is broughtto a piece of bread; And the adulteress hunteth for the precious life.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 6:26 delivers a profound and sobering warning against the escalating dangers of sexual immorality, meticulously distinguishing between the financial ruin brought by a harlot and the far more devastating, life-threatening destruction inflicted by an adulteress. This verse serves as a crucial pivot within the larger admonition against illicit relationships, underscoring wisdom's urgent call to discernment and self-control, contrasting the fleeting allure of sin with its enduring and catastrophic impact on one's well-being, reputation, and very essence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a sustained and urgent paternal admonition against sexual immorality, spanning Proverbs chapters 5-7. Solomon, the wise teacher, repeatedly warns his son about the perils of the "strange woman" or "adulteress," meticulously detailing her seductive tactics, the immediate but deceptive pleasure she offers, and the ultimate, inescapable ruin she brings. Proverbs 6:26 specifically follows vivid descriptions of the adulteress's cunning allure and deceptive flattery, as seen in [Proverbs 6:24-25](/proverbs/6-24-25 "Proverbs 6:24-25 - The Seduction of the Adulteress"). It then serves as a critical transition, intensifying the warning by delineating two distinct levels of destruction—financial and existential—before leading into even more dire portrayals of the consequences, including public shame, severe legal punishment, and even death, as elaborated in [Proverbs 6:27-35](/proverbs/6-27-35 "Proverbs 6:27-35 - The Unavoidable Consequences of Adultery"). The literary structure of these chapters builds a compelling case, moving from initial warnings to increasingly graphic and dire portrayals of the outcomes, with 6:26 highlighting the escalating nature of the danger.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, sexual fidelity was not merely a private moral choice but a cornerstone of the covenant community, family honor, and societal stability. Adultery, particularly by a married woman, was considered a grave offense, often carrying the capital penalty (e.g., [Leviticus 20:10](/leviticus/20-10 "Leviticus 20:10 - Punishment for Adultery"), [Deuteronomy 22:22](/deuteronomy/22-22 "Deuteronomy 22:22 - Punishment for Adultery")). Prostitution, while condemned and associated with pagan practices, was a lamentable societal reality, often leading to economic exploitation and social degradation for both the prostitute and her clients. The "whorish woman" (prostitute) was primarily associated with financial depletion, as her services required payment, leading to poverty and loss of resources. The "adulteress" (a married woman engaging in illicit affairs) posed a far greater threat, as her actions could lead to public scandal, legal prosecution, the disintegration of families, and the defilement of the community, striking at the very fabric of society and the man's "precious life" in terms of his standing, reputation, and future. These warnings reflect a patriarchal society where a man's honor, legacy, and inheritance were paramount, and the violation of sexual boundaries had profound, far-reaching consequences.

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 6:26 contributes significantly to several overarching themes foundational to the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **consequences of folly** and the **indispensable value of wisdom**. Wisdom, often personified as a guide and protector throughout Proverbs, urges discernment and self-control to avoid the pitfalls of sexual sin, which is consistently depicted as a direct path to destruction and ruin. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **sexual purity and marital fidelity** as essential for a blessed, stable, and honorable life. By starkly contrasting the ruinous outcomes of illicit relationships with the implicit benefits of faithfulness, it reinforces the sanctity of marriage and the covenantal nature of sexual intimacy. Thirdly, it speaks to the **deceptive and destructive nature of sin**, which promises fleeting pleasure but delivers profound pain, irreparable loss, and even death. The concept of "precious life" connects to the broader biblical understanding of the human soul and its ultimate value before God, emphasizing that sin jeopardizes not just material wealth but one's very being, reputation, and eternal destiny, a truth echoed in [Matthew 16:26](/matthew/16-26 "Matthew 16:26 - What Good Will It Be?").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **whorish (Hebrew, _zânâh'_):** From the primitive root H2181, `zânâh` literally means "to commit adultery," though it often refers to simple fornication or the actions of a harlot/prostitute. The root's implication of being "highly-fed and therefore wanton" suggests a lifestyle characterized by indulgence and moral looseness. Figuratively, it is frequently used to describe idolatry, portraying the Jewish people as unfaithful to Jehovah, their divine spouse. In Proverbs 6:26, it specifically denotes a professional prostitute whose association leads to financial ruin, reducing a man to destitution.
* **piece (Hebrew, _kikkâr'_):** Derived from H3603, `kikkâr` literally means "a circle." By implication, it refers to a round loaf of bread or a talent (a large, round coin). In the context of "a piece of bread" (`kikkâr lechem`), it signifies a single, basic loaf or morsel, representing extreme poverty, destitution, or the barest necessities for survival. This vivid imagery illustrates the reduction of a man's wealth and status to the absolute minimum, a direct consequence of squandering resources on a harlot.
* **life (Hebrew, _nephesh'_):** From H5315, `nephesh` is a comprehensive term with a vast semantic range, including "breathing creature," "vitality," "soul," "self," "person," "appetite," or "desire." It encompasses the whole being—physical, emotional, and mental. When paired with `yâqâr` (H3368, "precious" or "valuable"), "precious life" (`nephesh yâqâr`) signifies something of immense and irreplaceable value—not merely physical existence, but one's reputation, honor, spiritual well-being, future, and very essence. The adulteress "hunts" for this most valuable asset, indicating a deeper, more profound and comprehensive destruction than mere financial loss.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For by means of a whorish woman [a man is brought] to a piece of bread:"** This initial clause delineates the first, albeit severe, level of devastation. Engaging in sexual relations with a prostitute (a "whorish woman") inevitably leads to financial impoverishment and economic ruin. The man's resources are squandered, his wealth depleted, leaving him with only the barest necessities for survival, symbolized by "a piece of bread." This highlights the tangible economic and social degradation that results from such illicit relationships, stripping a man of his material security and standing.
* **"and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life."** This second clause introduces a far more insidious and profound danger. The "adulteress," defined as a married woman engaging in illicit affairs, is depicted with predatory imagery as a hunter. Her target is not merely a man's finances but his "precious life." This encompasses his reputation, honor, social standing, family relationships, spiritual vitality, and even his physical safety, as adultery was a capital offense in ancient Israel. The imagery suggests a deliberate, malicious, and comprehensive pursuit aimed at destroying the very essence, integrity, and future of the individual, indicating a far deeper and more comprehensive ruin than mere financial loss.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 6:26 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its urgent and escalating warning. **Parallelism** is a primary feature, specifically **antithetical parallelism**, where the two clauses present distinct yet related consequences for different forms of illicit sexual engagement. The first clause describes financial ruin, while the second portrays a more profound destruction of one's "precious life," creating a powerful sense of intensifying danger and escalating stakes. **Metaphor** is central to the verse's impact; the phrase "brought to a piece of bread" is a vivid **metaphor** for extreme poverty and destitution, illustrating the complete depletion of resources. The "adulteress will hunt" is another potent **metaphor**, depicting the adulteress as a cunning and relentless predator and the man as her vulnerable prey, emphasizing her malicious intent and the man's profound danger. This also borders on **Personification**, as the abstract concept of the "adulteress" is given the active, predatory quality of "hunting." The stark contrast between the relatively minor loss of "a piece of bread" and the ultimate loss of "the precious life" also functions as a form of **hyperbole**, emphasizing the extreme and devastating nature of the losses incurred by succumbing to the adulteress.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 6:26 serves as a profound theological statement on the insidious nature of sin, particularly sexual immorality, and its devastating impact on human flourishing. It reveals that sin is not merely a transgression of divine rules but an active, corrosive force that diminishes and ultimately destroys life in its totality—materially, socially, reputationally, and existentially. The sharp distinction drawn between financial ruin and the loss of "precious life" underscores the holistic value God places on a person—their physical well-being, social standing, spiritual integrity, and eternal destiny are all intricately intertwined and profoundly vulnerable to the corrosive effects of unrighteousness. This warning aligns seamlessly with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes purity, fidelity, and the sanctity of life as reflections of God's holy character and His perfect design for humanity. The pursuit of wisdom, as championed throughout Proverbs, is ultimately about choosing life over death, blessing over curse, by adhering to God's moral order and His revealed will.

* [Proverbs 7:26-27](/proverbs/7-26-27 "Proverbs 7:26-27 - The Many Victims of the Adulteress")
* [Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage Should Be Honored")
* [1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Sexual Immorality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 6:26 remains profoundly relevant for every generation, serving as a timeless and urgent warning against the seductive and destructive power of sexual immorality. It compels us to recognize that sin, especially in this deeply personal and relational realm, is never a victimless act; it exacts a severe and escalating toll on the individual, leading to financial ruin, reputational damage, and, most critically, the erosion of one's "precious life"—our identity, purpose, spiritual vitality, and eternal destiny. The verse challenges us to cultivate unwavering vigilance, rigorous self-control, and an unshakeable commitment to purity and fidelity, not merely as abstract moral obligations but as essential safeguards for our holistic well-being and flourishing. Understanding the true, devastating cost of sin empowers us to make wise choices that protect our relationships, our resources, and our very souls, aligning our lives with God's design for abundance and integrity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what contemporary forms might the "piece of bread" (financial ruin) and "precious life" (existential destruction) consequences manifest for those who engage in illicit sexual relationships today?**
* **How can individuals proactively guard their hearts and minds against the subtle and overt allure of sexual temptation, as vividly warned against in this proverb?**
* **What does the concept of "precious life" imply about the holistic value God places on human beings, and how does engaging in sexual sin undermine or devalue this sacred gift?**
* **How does the wisdom of Proverbs 6:26 encourage us to prioritize long-term spiritual, relational, and personal health over fleeting, immediate pleasures?**

### FAQ
**What is the fundamental difference between a "whorish woman" and an "adulteress" as described in this proverb?**

Answer: The proverb draws a crucial distinction between two types of women who lead to different, though both destructive, levels of ruin. A "whorish woman" (Hebrew: `zânâh`) typically refers to a professional prostitute. Engaging with her primarily leads to financial depletion, bringing a man "to a piece of bread," which vividly symbolizes economic destitution and the squandering of resources. An "adulteress" (Hebrew: `ʼishshâh` `ʼîysh`, literally "a woman of a man," signifying a married woman) refers to someone who commits adultery. The danger from her is presented as far more severe and comprehensive, as she "will hunt for the precious life." This implies a deeper, more profound destruction that extends beyond mere financial loss, encompassing the loss of reputation, honor, social standing, family integrity, and even physical life, as adultery was punishable by death in ancient Israel.

**What does the phrase "hunt for the precious life" truly signify in the context of this proverb?**

Answer: The phrase "precious life" (Hebrew: `nephesh yâqâr`) signifies something of immense and irreplaceable value. `Nephesh` refers to the soul, self, or vital being, encompassing one's entire existence—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. `Yâqâr` means valuable, costly, or honorable. Therefore, "hunting for the precious life" means the adulteress seeks to destroy not just a man's material possessions or social standing, but his very essence, his integrity, his future, his relationships, and his spiritual well-being. It speaks to a profound and ultimate ruin that goes beyond mere financial loss, striking at the core of who a person is and their potential for a blessed and honorable life before God and man. This concept is foundational to understanding the sanctity of life throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like [Matthew 16:26](/matthew/16-26 "Matthew 16:26 - What Good Will It Be?").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 6:26 issues a stern warning rooted in the Law and wisdom tradition, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning are profoundly revealed in Christ. The "precious life" that the adulteress hunts is precisely what Jesus came to restore, redeem, and secure for humanity. Humanity, enslaved by sin and facing spiritual destitution, was indeed brought "to a piece of bread"—a state of utter spiritual poverty, moral bankruptcy, and separation from God, unable to provide for its own needs. Yet, Christ, the true [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life"), offers Himself as the ultimate provision, satisfying our deepest hunger and restoring us from spiritual bankruptcy. Furthermore, Jesus did not merely warn against sin; He embodied perfect purity and unwavering fidelity, fulfilling the Law's demands that humanity could not meet. He confronted the heart of lust and adultery, teaching that sin begins not just in action but in the innermost desires (cf. [Matthew 5:28](/matthew/5-28 "Matthew 5:28 - Lust in the Heart")). Ultimately, He laid down His own "precious life" (cf. [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life")) as a perfect sacrifice to redeem us from the predatory hunt of sin and death, offering us not just life, but [abundant and eternal life](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Life Abundantly"). Through His atoning work and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, believers are now enabled to flee sexual immorality (cf. [1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Sexual Immorality")) and live in purity, preserving the precious life He has graciously given and finding true honor in Him.

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.

Cross-References

Luke 15:30

But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

Proverbs 29:3

¶ Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth [his] substance.

1 Samuel 2:36

And it shall come to pass, [that] every one that is left in thine house shall come [and] crouch to him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray thee, into one of the priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread.

Proverbs 7:23

Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it [is] for his life.

Luke 15:13

And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

Luke 15:15

And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

Ezekiel 13:8

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye have spoken vanity, and seen lies, therefore, behold, I [am] against you, saith the Lord GOD.