Proverbs 6:27

KJV

Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?

KJV (with Strong's)

Can a man {H376} take {H2846} fire {H784} in his bosom {H2436}, and his clothes {H899} not be burned {H8313}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Can a man carry fire inside his shirt without burning his clothes?

Berean Standard Bible

Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned?

American Standard Version

Can a man take fire in his bosom, And his clothes not be burned?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 6:27 presents a stark rhetorical question that serves as a profound warning against the inevitable, destructive consequences of engaging in dangerous and morally compromising actions, particularly those related to sexual immorality. Through the vivid imagery of carrying fire in one's clothing, the verse underscores the self-evident truth that certain choices inherently lead to painful and damaging outcomes, making a compelling case for prudence, foresight, and the avoidance of temptation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a significant section of the Book of Proverbs (chapters 5-7) dedicated to urgent warnings against the seductive lure and devastating repercussions of adultery and promiscuity. The fatherly instruction, a hallmark of the early chapters of Proverbs, guides the young man away from folly and toward wisdom. Immediately preceding this, Proverbs 6 addresses various forms of foolishness, including idleness and deceit (e.g., [Proverbs 6:6-11](/proverbs/6-6 "Proverbs 6:6-11 - Warning Against Idleness")), before shifting its intense focus to the "adulterous woman" from [Proverbs 6:20](/proverbs/6-20 "Proverbs 6:20 - Warning Against Adultery") onwards. Proverbs 6:27 itself is part of a pair of rhetorical questions (along with [Proverbs 6:28](/proverbs/6-28 "Proverbs 6:28 - Walking on Hot Coals")) that vividly illustrate the inescapable nature of sin's consequences, reinforcing the earlier warnings with undeniable logic.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery employed in Proverbs 6:27 would have been immediately understood in the ancient Near East. "Fire" was a common and potent symbol of destruction, purification, and divine judgment across various cultures. The "bosom" refers to the fold of a garment over the chest, often used as a convenient pouch for carrying small items. The idea of carrying live coals in this manner would instantly evoke a sense of imminent danger and self-inflicted harm. In a society where reputation, family honor, and lineage were paramount, the consequences of sexual immorality, particularly adultery, were severe, ranging from social ostracization to, in some legal codes, even death (e.g., [Leviticus 20:10](/leviticus/20-10 "Leviticus 20:10 - Penalty for Adultery")). The wisdom literature of the era frequently used such practical, everyday scenarios to convey profound moral and theological truths.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 6:27 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book and biblical wisdom literature. The most prominent theme is the **inevitability of consequences**, asserting that certain actions, like carrying fire, inherently lead to destructive outcomes. This is directly linked to the **destructive nature of sin**, portraying it as a consuming force that damages reputation, relationships, health, and spiritual well-being, much like fire consumes fabric. The verse implicitly champions **wisdom and prudence**, urging the reader to exercise foresight and self-control to avoid situations that will predictably lead to ruin. It underscores the principle of **cause and effect**, emphasizing that choices have repercussions, and warns against the folly of believing one can engage in harmful behavior without suffering the natural, painful results. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that "whatever one sows, that will he also reap," as articulated in [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** H376 refers to an individual, a male person. In this context, it emphasizes the personal responsibility and agency of the one making the choice to engage in dangerous behavior. It highlights that the warning is directed at a specific individual capable of moral decision-making.
* **take (Hebrew, _châthâh'_):** H2846, a primitive root, means "to lay hold of," specifically "to pick up fire." This word denotes an intentional act of acquiring or handling something dangerous. It implies a deliberate choice to bring the "fire" (representing sin or temptation) into one's immediate proximity, rather than an accidental encounter.
* **fire (Hebrew, _ʼêsh'_):** H784 is a primitive word for "fire," used literally or figuratively. Here, it primarily serves as a powerful metaphor for the consuming, destructive, and painful nature of sin, particularly sexual immorality, and its inevitable consequences. It evokes a sense of danger, heat, and ruin.
* **bosom (Hebrew, _chêyq'_):** H2436 refers to the bosom, the fold of a garment over the chest, or the lap. Carrying something in the bosom signifies holding it very close, intimately, and intentionally. This imagery intensifies the warning, suggesting that the "fire" is not merely nearby but embraced and held in a place of personal vulnerability.
* **burned (Hebrew, _sâraph'_):** H8313, a primitive root, means "to be (causatively, set) on fire" or "to burn up." This word signifies the unavoidable result of the action. It implies complete destruction or severe damage, reinforcing the message that engaging with the "fire" of sin will inevitably lead to painful and consuming consequences for oneself.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Can a man take fire in his bosom":** This opening clause sets up the rhetorical question, presenting an action that is universally understood to be dangerous and illogical. The "man" is the agent, deliberately choosing to "take" or embrace "fire" (representing temptation or sin) and hold it "in his bosom," a place of close proximity and personal vulnerability. The question immediately prompts the listener to acknowledge the inherent absurdity and peril of such an act.
* **"and his clothes not be burned?":** This concluding clause highlights the self-evident and unavoidable consequence of the action described. The "clothes" symbolize one's reputation, well-being, relationships, and even spiritual state—everything that covers and protects the individual. The rhetorical nature of the question demands an emphatic "No!" as the answer, asserting that damage is not just possible but absolutely certain when one deliberately engages with destructive forces.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 6:27 masterfully employs several **literary devices** to convey its urgent warning. The most prominent is the **Rhetorical Question**, which is not intended to be answered but to elicit immediate, self-evident agreement from the audience, thereby emphasizing the undeniable truth of the statement. This technique makes the warning particularly impactful and memorable. The verse also relies heavily on **Imagery**, painting a vivid mental picture of a man deliberately holding live coals against his chest. This concrete and relatable image serves as a powerful **Metaphor** where "fire" represents the destructive nature of sin, particularly sexual immorality, and its inevitable consequences. The "bosom" and "clothes" metaphorically represent one's innermost being, reputation, and life. Furthermore, there is an element of **Hyperbole** or extreme example, as the act described is so obviously foolish that it underscores the equally obvious folly of engaging in sin. The combination of these devices creates a compelling and unforgettable warning that resonates deeply with practical experience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply embeds itself within the broader biblical understanding of cause and effect, divine justice, and the inherent consequences of human choices. It echoes the consistent biblical teaching that sin, while seemingly pleasurable or advantageous in the short term, inevitably carries a heavy price and leads to destruction. The "fire" imagery connects to God's holiness and judgment, where sin cannot coexist with purity without consuming it. It highlights that while God is merciful, there are natural laws of consequence woven into the fabric of creation that even grace does not always circumvent in the temporal realm. The wisdom literature, in particular, stresses the importance of discerning these cause-and-effect relationships and choosing the path of righteousness to avoid self-inflicted harm.

* [Proverbs 6:28](/proverbs/6-28 "Proverbs 6:28 - Walking on Hot Coals")
* [James 1:14-15](/james/1-14 "James 1:14-15 - The Progression of Sin")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 6:27 offers a timeless and universally applicable warning for all generations, urging us to confront the reality of consequences in our lives. It compels us to move beyond naive optimism or the delusion that we can engage in destructive behaviors without suffering harm. The "fire" in our bosom can represent any temptation or sin we knowingly embrace—whether it's illicit relationships, financial dishonesty, gossip, addiction, or bitterness. The verse calls us to a radical self-awareness, prompting us to identify what "fire" we might be carrying, consciously or unconsciously, that is threatening to burn our "clothes"—our reputation, relationships, peace of mind, or spiritual vitality. True wisdom, then, is not merely knowing what is right, but actively avoiding the circumstances and choices that inevitably lead to ruin, embracing foresight and self-control as essential virtues for a life of integrity and flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "fire" am I currently carrying in my life—what temptations or destructive habits am I knowingly embracing or tolerating?**
* **In what areas of my life am I prone to believe I can defy the principle of inevitable consequences?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to "flee" temptation and avoid situations that could lead to spiritual or relational "burns"?**

### FAQ
**Is this verse only about sexual sin, or does it have broader application?**

Answer: While the immediate literary context of Proverbs 6:20-35 focuses intensely on the dangers of sexual immorality and adultery, the principle conveyed in Proverbs 6:27 is universal. The rhetorical question uses a vivid, self-evident illustration that applies to any action or behavior that carries inherent, destructive consequences. Just as fire burns, so too do many forms of sin or folly inevitably lead to harm. Therefore, while its primary application in this passage is to sexual purity, the wisdom it imparts extends to all areas of life where one might be tempted to engage in dangerous activities, believing they can escape the natural repercussions. It's a foundational principle of cause and effect in the moral universe.

**Why does Proverbs use such vivid and sometimes graphic imagery like fire and hot coals?**

Answer: Proverbs, as wisdom literature, aims to be highly memorable and impactful. Using vivid, concrete imagery like "fire in the bosom" or "walking on hot coals" (as in [Proverbs 6:28](/proverbs/6-28 "Proverbs 6:28 - Walking on Hot Coals")) serves several purposes. Firstly, it makes the abstract concept of "consequences of sin" tangible and relatable to everyday experience. Everyone understands the danger of fire. Secondly, it emphasizes the severity and pain of the inevitable outcomes, leaving no room for doubt or rationalization. Thirdly, the use of rhetorical questions with such imagery forces the listener to immediately acknowledge the self-evident truth, making the warning deeply personal and undeniable. This didactic approach ensures the message is not easily forgotten.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 6:27, with its stark warning about the inevitable consequences of embracing destructive "fire," finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb highlights humanity's inability to escape the natural repercussions of sin, Christ is the one who took the ultimate "fire" of divine judgment upon Himself, bearing the consuming wrath that our sins deserved (as hinted at in [Hebrews 12:29](/hebrews/12-29 "Hebrews 12:29 - God is a Consuming Fire")). He, the sinless [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), was "burned" in our place, offering a way of escape from the eternal consequences of sin. Moreover, Jesus embodies the perfect wisdom that Proverbs commends, living a life of absolute purity and self-control, never embracing the "fire" of temptation. For those who are in Christ, the power of sin no longer holds them captive ([Romans 6:6-7](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6-7 - Freedom from Sin")). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are empowered not only to flee temptation but also to live lives of righteousness, finding strength to avoid "taking fire in their bosom" and instead walk in the path of life and peace that Christ provides ([Romans 8:1-4](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1-4 - No Condemnation in Christ")). The warning of Proverbs 6:27 thus points to our desperate need for a Savior who both bore our judgment and enables us to live wisely, avoiding the self-inflicted burns of sin.

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

Job 31:9

¶ If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or [if] I have laid wait at my neighbour's door;

Job 31:12

For it [is] a fire [that] consumeth to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.

Hosea 7:4

They [are] all adulterers, as an oven heated by the baker, [who] ceaseth from raising after he hath kneaded the dough, until it be leavened.

Hosea 7:7

They are all hot as an oven, and have devoured their judges; all their kings are fallen: [there is] none among them that calleth unto me.

James 3:5

Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!