Proverbs 7:10

KJV

And, behold, there met him a woman [with] the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.

KJV (with Strong's)

And, behold, there met {H7125} him a woman {H802} with the attire {H7897} of an harlot {H2181}, and subtil {H5341} of heart {H3820}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then a woman approaches him, dressed as a prostitute, wily of heart.

Berean Standard Bible

Then a woman came out to meet him, with the attire of a harlot and cunning of heart.

American Standard Version

And, behold, there met him a woman With the attire of a harlot, and wily of heart.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 7:10 presents a vivid and cautionary encounter, introducing the "strange woman" or adulteress as she actively seeks out her prey. This verse highlights two critical aspects of her danger: her outward appearance, which is designed to entice and signal her illicit profession, and her inward character, marked by cunning and deceptive intent. It serves as a potent warning within the broader wisdom literature of Proverbs, illustrating how temptation often manifests through alluring exteriors that conceal malicious and destructive purposes, thereby underscoring the vital need for discernment and moral vigilance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 7:10 is a pivotal moment within a sustained parental warning against sexual immorality, specifically the allure of the adulterous woman, which spans most of [Proverbs 7](/proverbs/7 "Proverbs 7 - The Warning Against the Adulteress"). The preceding verses ([Proverbs 7:6-9](/proverbs/7-6 "Proverbs 7:6-9 - The Naive Youth") depict a naive young man, devoid of understanding, wandering near the woman's house at twilight—a time often associated with illicit activity. This sets the stage for the dramatic encounter described in verse 10, where the woman actively "meets" him. The chapter then continues to detail her seductive words and the tragic consequences for those who fall into her snare, culminating in a stark warning about the path to death ([Proverbs 7:27](/proverbs/7-27 "Proverbs 7:27 - Her House Leads to Death")). This narrative serves as a concrete illustration of the abstract principles of wisdom versus folly presented throughout the book of Proverbs, particularly the stark contrast between the "way of wisdom" and the "way of the wicked" ([Proverbs 4:10-19](/proverbs/4-10 "Proverbs 4:10-19 - The Paths of Wisdom and Wickedness")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in many ancient Near Eastern societies, social norms were deeply patriarchal, and female modesty was highly valued. Public prostitution, while condemned, was a known reality, often associated with specific attire or mannerisms that distinguished practitioners from respectable women. The "attire of a harlot" would have been immediately recognizable, signaling her profession and availability. Furthermore, the "street" or "corners" mentioned in earlier verses ([Proverbs 7:8](/proverbs/7-8 "Proverbs 7:8 - The Youth's Path")) were public spaces where such encounters might occur, contrasting sharply with the sanctity of the home and family. The concept of "heart" (lêb) in Hebrew thought was not merely the seat of emotions but also of intellect, will, and moral character. Thus, a "subtil of heart" woman was not just emotionally manipulative but intellectually cunning and morally corrupt in her core being, making her a profound threat to the social and moral fabric of the community.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Proverbs. Firstly, it exemplifies the theme of **Deceptive Allure**, where temptation often presents itself with an attractive or intriguing exterior, masking its destructive interior. The woman's "attire" is a visual trap, designed to draw in the unsuspecting. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Spiritual and Moral Discernment**. The wise are called to look beyond superficial appearances to perceive the true nature and intent, especially when faced with choices that could lead to moral compromise. The "subtil of heart" emphasizes that true danger lies not just in outward actions but in the hidden, corrupt motivations. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the overarching theme of **Consequences of Folly**, showing how a lack of wisdom leads one directly into perilous situations. The young man's naivety ([Proverbs 7:7](/proverbs/7-7 "Proverbs 7:7 - The Simple Youth")) makes him vulnerable to the woman's calculated seduction, underscoring the book's consistent message that embracing wisdom is paramount for avoiding destruction and embracing life ([Proverbs 3:1-2](/proverbs/3-1 "Proverbs 3:1-2 - The Benefits of Wisdom")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **H2181 (Hebrew, _zânâh'_):** This root word for "harlot" is highly significant. While literally referring to prostitution or illicit sexual activity (often of the female), its figurative use is profound: "to commit idolatry." This dual meaning underscores the spiritual danger inherent in such encounters. Just as physical harlotry breaks the covenant of marriage, spiritual harlotry (idolatry) breaks the covenant with God. The woman's "attire of a harlot" thus signifies not only her profession but also a deeper spiritual rebellion and deviation from God's established order, making her a symbol of spiritual compromise and unfaithfulness.
* **H5341 (Hebrew, _nâtsar'_):** Translated "subtil" in this context, this word carries a dual meaning of "to guard" or "to conceal." While it can mean to protect or preserve (a good sense), here it is used in a negative sense, implying a hidden, guarded, or secretive nature. The woman's heart is not openly cunning but "subtil," suggesting a deep-seated, calculating, and deceptive craftiness that is not immediately apparent. It points to a deliberate, concealed intention to ensnare, making her far more dangerous than a simple, overt temptress.
* **H3820 (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** This term for "heart" in Hebrew thought encompasses the totality of a person's inner being—their intellect, will, emotions, and moral core. When the woman is described as "subtil of heart," it means her deception is not superficial or accidental; it originates from the very center of her being. Her cunning is deeply ingrained in her character, reflecting a corrupt will and intellect, making her a formidable and morally bankrupt adversary.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And, behold, there met him a woman":** This phrase immediately creates a sense of sudden, unexpected encounter, yet one that is not coincidental but initiated by the woman. The "behold" (וְהִנֵּה, _wəhinnēh_) draws the reader's attention to the immediacy and significance of the event. The woman actively "met" (H7125, _qirʼâh_) him, indicating her predatory intent rather than a chance crossing of paths. She is not merely present; she is engaging.
* **"[with] the attire of an harlot":** This describes her outward appearance, which serves as a clear, visual identifier of her profession and intentions. Her "attire" (H7897, _shîyth_) is not just clothing but a deliberate uniform, designed to attract and signal her availability for illicit sexual activity. This visual cue is the first layer of her deception, an alluring facade that is meant to draw in her unsuspecting victim.
* **"and subtil of heart":** This clause reveals the deeper, more dangerous aspect of her character—her inner nature. Beyond her outward appearance, her "subtil" (H5341, _nâtsar_) heart (H3820, _lêb_) indicates a cunning, manipulative, and deceptive disposition. This is not mere foolishness but a calculated, artful wickedness that originates from her core being, making her a master of psychological and emotional entrapment.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 7:10 employs several potent literary devices to convey its warning. **Imagery** is central, as the "attire of an harlot" paints a vivid picture for the audience, immediately signaling the woman's identity and intent without explicit declaration. This visual cue functions as a form of **Symbolism**, where the specific dress represents not just a profession but also the broader concept of temptation, moral decay, and spiritual danger. The description of her as "subtil of heart" utilizes **Characterization** to reveal her inner nature, emphasizing that her threat is not merely external or physical but deeply rooted in her manipulative and deceptive will. This internal cunning creates a sense of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the elaborate traps and smooth words she will employ later in the chapter. The verse also serves as a stark **Contrast** to the personification of Wisdom found elsewhere in Proverbs, which is depicted as open, clear, and life-giving, unlike the hidden, deceptive, and death-dealing nature of this "strange woman."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 7:10 serves as a profound theological warning, illustrating the insidious nature of temptation and the critical importance of discernment. It highlights that sin, particularly sexual sin, often presents itself in alluring forms, but its true danger lies in the deceptive intentions and destructive consequences hidden beneath the surface. The woman's "attire" and "subtil heart" represent the dual threat of outward enticement and inward corruption, mirroring how sin often appeals to our desires while harboring a deadly purpose. This verse underscores the biblical emphasis on the heart as the wellspring of life and moral conduct, warning that a corrupted heart leads to destructive paths. It calls believers to cultivate wisdom, not merely as intellectual knowledge, but as a spiritual capacity to perceive and resist the subtle snares of the enemy, recognizing that true purity begins in the heart and manifests in righteous living.

* [Proverbs 5:3-6](/proverbs/5-3 "Proverbs 5:3-6 - The Bitter End of the Adulteress")
* [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart")
* [Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - Beware of False Prophets")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 7:10 offers timeless wisdom for navigating a world saturated with temptations and deceptions. It compels us to cultivate a profound sense of spiritual discernment, urging us to look beyond superficial appearances and attractive facades to perceive the true character and underlying intentions of people, ideologies, and even our own desires. In an age where image is often prioritized over substance, this verse reminds us that true danger often lies not in overt wickedness but in the subtle, cunning, and seemingly harmless enticements that mask destructive ends. It challenges us to guard our hearts diligently, recognizing that the battle against temptation is often won or lost in the inner chambers of our minds and wills. By understanding the "red flags"—the alluring attire and the "subtil heart"—we are better equipped to avoid compromising situations and to cling to the path of righteousness, seeking wisdom as our primary guide in all relationships and moral choices.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you most susceptible to outward allurements that might conceal a "subtil heart" or destructive intent?**
* **How can you actively cultivate greater discernment in your daily interactions and decisions, moving beyond superficial appearances?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "guard your heart" against the cunning deceptions of the world, as highlighted in this proverb?**
* **How does understanding the "subtil of heart" nature of temptation help you to pray more effectively for yourself and others?**

### FAQ
**What does "attire of a harlot" imply in this context?**

Answer: The "attire of a harlot" (Hebrew, _shîyth_ H7897, "dress," and _zânâh_ H2181, "harlot") implies a specific mode of dress that was culturally recognized as belonging to a prostitute or an adulteress in ancient Israel. While the exact details are not specified, it would have been distinct from the modest clothing worn by respectable women. It likely involved elements designed to be provocative, draw attention, or signal availability for illicit sexual encounters. This attire serves as a visible "advertisement" of her profession and intentions, making her easily identifiable to those she seeks to ensnare. It's the first layer of her trap, a visual enticement that precedes her verbal seduction, as described later in [Proverbs 7:13-21](/proverbs/7-13 "Proverbs 7:13-21 - The Adulteress's Seduction").

**How does "subtil of heart" contribute to the woman's danger?**

Answer: The phrase "subtil of heart" (Hebrew, _nâtsar_ H5341, "subtil" or "guarded," and _lêb_ H3820, "heart") reveals that the woman's danger extends far beyond her outward appearance. Her "heart" represents her intellect, will, and moral character—her entire inner being. To be "subtil" in this negative sense means she is not merely impulsive or overtly wicked, but possesses a deep-seated, calculating, and deceptive cunning. She is artful and strategic in her evil intentions, planning her seductions with careful thought and hidden motives. This makes her exceptionally dangerous because her actions are premeditated and designed to ensnare, rather than being mere spontaneous temptations. It underscores that true spiritual danger often comes from a corrupted inner nature, not just external pressures, as also warned in [Matthew 15:19](/matthew/15-19 "Matthew 15:19 - Out of the Heart").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 7:10, with its vivid portrayal of the "strange woman" and her deceptive allure, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. The "strange woman," embodying folly and sin, stands in stark contrast to Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine Wisdom ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). While the adulteress seeks to lead the naive down a path of destruction and death ([Proverbs 7:27](/proverbs/7-27 "Proverbs 7:27 - Her House Leads to Death")), Jesus, as the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus the Way, Truth, and Life")), leads His followers to eternal life and true freedom. The "subtil of heart" woman represents the cunning and deceptive nature of sin and Satan, who tempts humanity with alluring promises that lead to bondage and death ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil a Liar and Murderer")). Christ, however, perfectly resisted all temptation, even in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")), demonstrating His absolute purity and unwavering commitment to God's will. He did not succumb to outward enticement or inward corruption but exposed the lies of the enemy. Ultimately, Christ's sacrifice on the cross breaks the power of sin and death, freeing those who believe from the very snares that the "strange woman" represents. Through Him, believers are given the Holy Spirit, enabling them to discern truth from deception and to walk in wisdom, guarding their hearts and living lives that honor God, rather than falling prey to the world's destructive allurements ([Romans 8:1-4](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1-4 - Life in the Spirit")).

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 Timothy 2:9

¶ In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

Isaiah 3:16

¶ Moreover the LORD saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing [as] they go, and making a tinkling with their feet:

Isaiah 3:24

And it shall come to pass, [that] instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; [and] burning instead of beauty.

2 Corinthians 11:2

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:3

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Revelation 17:3

So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.

Revelation 17:5

And upon her forehead [was] a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.