Proverbs 6:29

KJV

So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.

KJV (with Strong's)

So he that goeth in {H935} to his neighbour's {H7453} wife {H802}; whosoever toucheth {H5060} her shall not be innocent {H5352}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So is he who has sex with his neighbor's wife; anyone touching her will be punished.

Berean Standard Bible

So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.

American Standard Version

So he that goeth in to his neighbor’s wife; Whosoever toucheth her shall not be unpunished.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 6:29 issues a stark and unequivocal warning against the grave sin of adultery, specifically targeting a man who engages in sexual relations with his neighbor's wife. The proverb declares with absolute certainty that such a person "shall not be innocent," emphasizing the inescapable guilt and the inevitable, severe consequences that accompany this profound violation of covenant, trust, and divine law. It underscores that there is no possibility of acquittal or escape from the repercussions for those who commit this destructive act.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 6:29 is embedded within a larger didactic section (Proverbs 6:20-35) where Solomon, the wise teacher, fervently warns his son against the perils of sexual immorality. This particular verse follows a vivid description of the seductive allure and deceptive nature of the adulteress (Proverbs 6:24-28), serving as a definitive declaration of the guilt inherent in yielding to such temptation. It acts as a pivotal statement of culpability, setting the stage for the detailed enumeration of the devastating consequences that follow in the subsequent verses, such as the destruction of one's reputation and soul as highlighted in [Proverbs 6:32](/proverbs/6-32 "Proverbs 6:32 - The Ruin of Adultery"). The structure moves from warning about the temptation to declaring the sin's nature and then detailing its severe outcomes.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, marriage was a foundational institution, viewed as a sacred covenant established by God and essential for the stability and continuation of the community. Adultery, therefore, was not merely a personal failing but a profound breach of covenant, a violation of the sanctity of marriage, and a direct assault on the family unit and societal order. Under Mosaic Law, adultery was a capital offense (e.g., [Leviticus 20:10](/leviticus/20-10 "Leviticus 20:10 - Punishment for Adultery")), reflecting its extreme gravity in the eyes of God and the community. The concept of "neighbor's wife" emphasizes the violation of trust within the community and the severe dishonor brought upon both families involved. This cultural backdrop underscores the absolute nature of the "not innocent" declaration, implying both legal and social condemnation.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Gravity of Adultery**, portraying it as a sin of immense weight that carries inherent and undeniable guilt, violating both human and divine covenants. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Inevitable Consequences** of sin, particularly sexual sin, asserting that there is no escaping the repercussions—unlike other transgressions where restitution might be possible (compare with [Proverbs 6:30-31](/proverbs/6-30 "Proverbs 6:30-31 - Theft and Restitution")). Thirdly, the verse implicitly upholds the **Sanctity of Marriage** and the imperative of fidelity, aligning directly with the [Seventh Commandment](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Moral Accountability**, stressing that individuals are held responsible for their actions and will face certain judgment for such grave moral transgressions.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **goeth in (Hebrew, _bôwʼ'_):** While `bôwʼ` is a primitive root meaning broadly "to go or come," in this specific context, the phrase "goeth in to his neighbour's wife" functions as a well-understood euphemism for entering into sexual relations. It denotes intimate access and the initiation of a sexual act, signifying the profound violation of boundaries and covenant.
* **toucheth (Hebrew, _nâgaʻ'_):** This primitive root primarily means "to touch" or "lay the hand upon." However, as the Strong's definition indicates, it is also used euphemistically to mean "to lie with a woman." This word reinforces the physical act of sexual intimacy, emphasizing that even the initiation or contact in such an illicit relationship carries the full weight of the transgression.
* **innocent (Hebrew, _nâqâh'_):** This primitive root means "to be (or make) clean," "acquitted," "blameless," or "unpunished." The negative construction "shall not be innocent" (literally, "shall not be clean/acquitted") is a powerful rhetorical device, emphatically stating the absolute impossibility of being declared guiltless or escaping punishment. It signifies an undeniable culpability and the certainty of facing judgment for the act.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife":** This clause identifies the perpetrator and the specific nature of the transgression. "Goeth in to" is a euphemism for sexual intercourse, highlighting the direct and intentional violation of the marital covenant of a "neighbor." This act is not merely a personal sin but a profound betrayal of trust within the community and a direct assault on the sanctity of another's marriage.
* **"whosoever toucheth her":** This phrase reiterates and reinforces the action, using another common euphemism for sexual intimacy. The "whosoever" emphasizes the universality of the warning—any man who commits this act, regardless of status or circumstance. The repetition underscores the physical reality of the transgression and its inherent defilement.
* **"shall not be innocent":** This is the definitive pronouncement of consequence. It means that the individual will unequivocally be held guilty, will not be acquitted, and will certainly face punishment. There is no loophole, no plea of ignorance, and no possibility of escaping the moral, social, and divine repercussions of such a heinous act. The guilt is absolute and inescapable.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 6:29 employs several literary devices to convey its stark warning. **Euphemism** is prominently used with the phrases "goeth in to" and "toucheth" to refer to sexual intercourse. This allows the text to discuss a sensitive topic directly without using explicit language, while still conveying the full weight of the act. The structure of the verse also demonstrates a form of **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the two clauses ("he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife" and "whosoever toucheth her") essentially describe the same illicit act, reinforcing the singular nature of the transgression. Furthermore, the concluding phrase "shall not be innocent" functions as a powerful **Litotes**, a rhetorical understatement that emphasizes the opposite. By stating that the person will "not be innocent," the text strongly implies that they will be *absolutely and undeniably guilty*, subject to severe judgment and consequences. This negative phrasing heightens the certainty and severity of the outcome.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The warning in Proverbs 6:29 is deeply rooted in the theological framework of the Old Testament, where marriage is understood as a sacred covenant reflecting God's own faithfulness and the intimate relationship between God and His people. Adultery, therefore, is not merely a social transgression but a sin against God Himself, a violation of the [Seventh Commandment](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment") and a desecration of the divine institution of marriage. It speaks to the inherent holiness God demands from His people and the destructive nature of sin that breaks covenants, destroys trust, and brings chaos to individuals, families, and communities. The certainty of guilt ("shall not be innocent") underscores God's unwavering justice and the principle that sin always carries consequences, both temporal and eternal. This proverb serves as a timeless reminder of the profound value God places on fidelity and purity within the marital bond.

* [Exodus 20:14](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment")
* [Proverbs 6:32-35](/proverbs/6-32 "Proverbs 6:32-35 - The Ruin of Adultery")
* [Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - God Judges Immorality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 6:29 stands as a timeless and sobering reminder of the profound seriousness of sexual sin, particularly adultery, and the inescapable consequences that follow. In a world that often trivializes sexual purity or redefines fidelity, this proverb calls believers to a higher standard, rooted in God's unchanging moral law. It compels us to recognize that actions have consequences, and some transgressions, like adultery, carry an inherent and indelible stain of guilt that cannot be easily erased or excused. For personal application, it challenges us to guard our hearts and minds, understanding that true purity begins internally, as Jesus taught in [Matthew 5:28](/matthew/5-28 "Matthew 5:28 - Jesus' Teaching on Lust"). It encourages proactive measures to flee temptation, cultivate faithfulness in all relationships, and uphold the sanctity of marriage as a reflection of God's covenant love. Ultimately, it calls us to live with integrity, honoring God's design for human sexuality and respecting the sacred bonds He has established.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the absolute declaration "shall not be innocent" challenge contemporary cultural attitudes towards sexual promiscuity and infidelity?**
* **What practical steps can individuals take to actively guard their hearts and minds against the temptations that could lead to such a destructive sin?**
* **Beyond the immediate consequences, what are the long-term spiritual and relational implications of violating the sanctity of marriage, as implied by this proverb?**

### FAQ
**Why is adultery considered such a severe sin in the Bible, as highlighted in Proverbs 6:29?**

Answer: Adultery is considered a severe sin because it is a direct violation of God's holy character and His covenantal design for marriage. It breaks the sacred bond between a husband and wife, which is intended to be a reflection of Christ's relationship with the Church ([Ephesians 5:31-32](/ephesians/5-31 "Ephesians 5:31-32 - The Mystery of Marriage")). It shatters trust, causes immense emotional and spiritual pain to all parties involved (spouse, children, community), and brings shame and dishonor. Furthermore, it is a direct transgression of the [Seventh Commandment](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment"), demonstrating a disregard for divine law and order. The Bible consistently portrays it as a destructive force that ruins lives and brings inevitable judgment.

**What does "whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent" precisely mean?**

Answer: This phrase means that anyone who commits adultery will undeniably be held guilty and will not escape punishment or consequences. The Hebrew word for "innocent" (nâqâh) implies being clean, acquitted, or unpunished. Therefore, "shall not be innocent" emphatically declares the opposite: the person will certainly be found guilty, will not be acquitted by any legal or moral standard, and will face the inevitable repercussions of their actions. It signifies a definitive and unavoidable judgment, both in societal terms (loss of reputation, potential legal penalties) and in divine terms (facing God's righteous anger).

**How does Proverbs 6:29 relate to Jesus' teachings on sexual purity, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount?**

Answer: Proverbs 6:29 addresses the external act of adultery, declaring its inherent guilt. Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, deepens this understanding by addressing the internal root of sin. In [Matthew 5:27-28](/matthew/5-27 "Matthew 5:27-28 - Jesus on Adultery and Lust"), Jesus states, "You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Jesus affirms the severity of the external act but expands the definition of adultery to include lustful intent, emphasizing that true purity begins in the heart and mind. Thus, Proverbs 6:29 highlights the consequence of the act, while Jesus reveals the spiritual origin of the sin, calling for a radical purity that goes beyond mere outward conformity to the law.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 6:29 starkly warns of the inescapable guilt and consequences of adultery under the Law, its ultimate fulfillment and resolution are found in Jesus Christ. Christ perfectly upheld the Law, including the [Seventh Commandment](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment"), not only in His actions but also in His thoughts, demonstrating the absolute purity required by God. He then, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the guilt and consequences of all human sin, including sexual immorality, on the cross. Through His atoning sacrifice, those who believe in Him can be declared truly "innocent" before God, not by their own merit, but by His imputed righteousness ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery in [John 8:1-11](/john/8-1 "John 8:1-11 - Jesus and the Adulterous Woman") powerfully illustrates His grace: He does not condemn her, but He also commands her to "go and sin no more," demonstrating that while He offers forgiveness for past sin, He also calls for a transformed life of purity. The gospel calls believers to flee sexual immorality ([1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Sexual Immorality")) and to live in holiness, honoring their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Our Bodies, Temples of the Holy Spirit")), empowered by the Spirit to walk in newness of life, reflecting the purity of Christ and the sanctity of His covenant with His Church, His bride ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")).

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

1 Corinthians 7:1

¶ Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: [It is] good for a man not to touch a woman.

Malachi 3:5

And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in [his] wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger [from his right], and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.

2 Samuel 16:21

And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that [are] with thee be strong.

2 Samuel 11:3

And David sent and enquired after the woman. And [one] said, [Is] not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?

2 Samuel 11:4

And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house.

2 Samuel 12:9

Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife [to be] thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

2 Samuel 12:10

Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife.