Proverbs 7:11

KJV

(She [is] loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:

KJV (with Strong's)

(She is loud {H1993} and stubborn {H5637}; her feet {H7272} abide {H7931} not in her house {H1004}:

Complete Jewish Bible

She's the coarse, impulsive type, whose feet don't stay at home;

Berean Standard Bible

She is loud and defiant; her feet do not remain at home.

American Standard Version

(She is clamorous and wilful; Her feet abide not in her house:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 7:11 meticulously describes the "strange woman" (or adulteress) as a figure whose character and conduct are antithetical to the wisdom and order championed throughout the book. She is portrayed as possessing a boisterous and defiant disposition, coupled with an inherent restlessness that prevents her from remaining within the appropriate confines of her home, thereby making her readily available for temptation and a potent source of moral peril to the unsuspecting and naive.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 7:11 is an integral part of an extended, vivid warning (Proverbs 7:6-27) delivered by a father to his son concerning the perils of sexual immorality. This specific verse acts as a crucial character sketch of the "immoral woman" (often translated "strange woman" or "adulteress"), providing insight into her disposition and habits. The preceding verses (Proverbs 7:6-10) set the scene, depicting the father's observation of a "simple" young man, lacking discernment, being lured into the dangerous twilight world where this woman operates. Verse 11 details *why* she is so dangerous: her very nature and lifestyle make her easily accessible and prone to ensnaring the unsuspecting. This detailed portrayal serves as a stark and deliberate contrast to the path of wisdom and righteous living consistently advocated throughout Proverbs, underscoring the concrete, tangible dangers of moral compromise. The father's warning progresses from observation to the woman's description, her seductive words, and finally, the devastating consequences of succumbing to her allure, making verse 11 a pivotal point in understanding her destructive power.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, the home (`bayith`) was the primary sphere of a woman's influence, responsibility, and honor, particularly for married women. Virtues such as modesty, discretion, and diligent household management were highly esteemed, as powerfully exemplified by [the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31](/proverbs/31 "Proverbs 31 - The Virtuous Woman"). A woman described as "loud and stubborn" and whose "feet abide not in her house" would have been perceived as a radical deviation from these deeply ingrained cultural norms. Her public, unrestrained, and defiant presence signaled a profound lack of self-control, a deliberate defiance of societal expectations, and an active pursuit of illicit encounters. Such behavior would immediately identify her as a woman of ill repute, sharply contrasting with the expected decorum, domesticity, and quiet dignity of a respectable woman in that cultural milieu. Her being "out" of her house was not merely a casual act but a public statement of her availability and moral deviance.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes central to the book of Proverbs. It vividly illustrates the pervasive theme of **wisdom versus folly**, positioning the "strange woman" as the embodiment of folly, whose path leads inevitably to destruction, in stark opposition to the life-giving path of wisdom ([Proverbs 4:18-19](/proverbs/4-18-19 "Proverbs 4:18-19 - The Path of the Righteous and the Wicked")). The detailed description of her character highlights the critical theme of **moral purity and sexual integrity**, serving as a potent warning against the devastating consequences of adultery and sexual promiscuity, which are repeatedly condemned throughout the book as a direct assault on the covenant, social order, and personal well-being ([Proverbs 6:23-35](/proverbs/6-23-35 "Proverbs 6:23-35 - Warning Against Adultery")). Furthermore, her restless and boundary-defying nature underscores the theme of **domestic order and stability**, contrasting her chaotic lifestyle with the peace, security, and flourishing found within a well-ordered home and a life lived in accordance with divine principles. The entire chapter [Proverbs 7](/proverbs/7 "Proverbs 7 - The Allure and Danger of the Adulteress") is a masterclass in these thematic warnings.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Loud (Hebrew, _hâmâh'_):** This term (H1993) is a primitive root meaning "to make a loud sound," "to be in great commotion or tumult," "to rage," or "to clamor." In the context of the strange woman, it implies a boisterous, noisy, and unruly disposition that seeks attention and disrupts social order. It signifies a lack of self-control and an unseemly public presence, contrasting sharply with the quiet dignity expected of a virtuous woman. Her "loudness" is not merely auditory but reflects an aggressive, unreserved demeanor.
* **Stubborn (Hebrew, _çârar'_):** Derived from H5637, this primitive root means "to turn away" or "to be refractory." It conveys a strong sense of rebelliousness, defiance, and an unwillingness to submit to moral authority, societal norms, or divine instruction. This woman is not merely disobedient but actively resistant and unyielding in her pursuit of her own desires, making her an agent of disorder and moral chaos. Her stubbornness is a deep-seated rejection of wisdom's call.
* **Abide (Hebrew, _shâkan'_):** This word (H7931) is a primitive root meaning "to reside or permanently stay," "to dwell," "to remain," or "to rest." When negated ("abide not"), it powerfully depicts her constant movement, restlessness, and inability to settle or remain within her designated place, specifically her home (H1004, _bayith_). This signifies a fundamental instability, a rejection of the domestic sphere as her proper domain, and a life lived in perpetual motion, seeking gratification outside of proper boundaries.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"(She is) loud and stubborn":** This opening clause immediately establishes the woman's core character, revealing both her external demeanor and internal disposition. "Loud" (H1993, _hâmâh_) speaks to her boisterous, perhaps even aggressive or attention-seeking public presence, which is unseemly and disruptive. It suggests a lack of restraint and an overt, unashamed pursuit of her desires. "Stubborn" (H5637, _çârar_) reveals her internal state: rebellious, defiant, and unwilling to submit to moral boundaries, societal expectations, or the wisdom that would lead her to a righteous path. Together, these traits paint a vivid picture of an unruly, unprincipled individual who operates outside the bounds of decency and order, driven by her own desires rather than by virtue or restraint.
* **"her feet abide not in her house":** This phrase serves as a concrete manifestation of her "loud and stubborn" nature, describing her restless and undisciplined behavior. "Her feet" (H7272, _regel_) symbolize her actions, her movements, and the overall direction of her life. The inability of her feet to "abide" (H7931, _shâkan_ – to settle, rest, or remain) in her "house" (H1004, _bayith_ – her home, the proper sphere of her activity) indicates a profound lack of domesticity, a constant wandering, and an active pursuit of opportunities for illicit encounters outside the home. This signifies a life lived in perpetual motion, seeking gratification and ensnaring others, rather than cultivating peace, order, and integrity within her own domain and within the boundaries of a virtuous life.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 7:11 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message with striking clarity and impact. **Personification** is central, as the "strange woman" is not merely a generic figure but a vivid, almost archetypal representation of folly and moral danger. Her characteristics are detailed as if she were a living, breathing embodiment of temptation, making the abstract concept of folly tangible and menacing. **Symbolism** is also prominent; her "feet" are symbolic of her overall conduct, her restless movements, and the direction of her life, indicating a purposeful departure from the path of righteousness and domestic order. The "house" itself symbolizes the sphere of proper conduct, stability, and moral boundaries, making her refusal to "abide" in it a symbolic rejection of these virtues and an embrace of chaos. Furthermore, the verse uses **antithesis** by implicitly contrasting her chaotic, unrestrained nature with the order, peace, and self-control associated with wisdom and the virtuous woman elsewhere in Proverbs, thereby highlighting the destructive nature of her path through a powerful, implied comparison.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 7:11 functions as a profound theological statement on the nature of sin, particularly sexual sin, and its disruptive impact on individuals and the fabric of society. The "strange woman" embodies the captivating allure of worldly desires and the deceptive nature of folly, which promises freedom but ultimately delivers bondage and destruction. Her loud and stubborn character reflects a heart that actively rejects divine wisdom, moral boundaries, and communal well-being, while her inability to remain in her house symbolizes a life lived outside of God's intended order for human flourishing and societal stability. Theologically, this verse underscores the critical importance of spiritual discernment, self-control, and unwavering adherence to God's covenant principles as essential safeguards against the pervasive influence of evil. It serves as a stark reminder to believers that true wisdom and lasting peace are found not in succumbing to the world's temptations, but in walking diligently in God's prescribed ways.

* [Proverbs 2:16-19](/proverbs/2-16-19 "Proverbs 2:16-19 - Deliverance from the Adulteress")
* [Proverbs 9:13-18](/proverbs/9-13-18 "Proverbs 9:13-18 - The Call of Folly and Its Consequences")
* [1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Sexual Immorality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 7:11 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the moral complexities of life, urging us to cultivate keen discernment, not merely of external appearances but of the underlying character and intentions of others. The "loud and stubborn" nature, coupled with a restless spirit, serves as a potent warning sign of an individual who lacks self-control, rejects authority, and is prone to destructive behavior. For us, this passage prompts a crucial self-examination: Am I "loud" in my opinions, unwilling to listen, learn, or yield to truth? Am I "stubborn," resistant to correction, divine guidance, or the leading of the Holy Spirit? Do my "feet abide not in my house," meaning am I restless, constantly seeking external validation, fleeting pleasures, or distractions outside the boundaries of God's design for my life, my relationships, or my responsibilities? The verse implicitly encourages the cultivation of quietness, humility, and a settled spirit that finds contentment within God's will and within the spheres of influence He has graciously given us, whether that be our physical home, our family, our church, or our community. It challenges us to embrace a life of integrity, order, and submission to divine wisdom, diligently guarding our hearts and our steps from the alluring yet ultimately destructive paths of folly.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I exhibit "loud" or "stubborn" tendencies in my own life, and how might these hinder my spiritual growth, relationships, or witness?**
* **What does it mean for my "feet to abide in my house" in a spiritual and practical sense, and how can I cultivate a more settled, content, and God-centered presence in my daily life?**
* **How can I better discern the character of those around me, recognizing the subtle signs of folly and actively avoiding their destructive influence or patterns?**
* **What specific boundaries do I need to establish or reinforce in my life to protect myself and my loved ones from the temptations symbolized by the "strange woman" and the allure of worldly folly?**

### FAQ
**What does "her feet abide not in her house" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase means that the woman is restless, unsettled, and constantly out of her home. It signifies a profound lack of domesticity, a rejection of the traditional role and sphere of influence for a woman in that society, and a deliberate choice to operate outside proper boundaries. Her "feet" symbolize her actions, movements, and the direction of her life, indicating that she is actively seeking opportunities outside the home, often for illicit purposes. It implies a life lived without boundaries, order, or a sense of proper place, contrasting sharply with the [virtuous woman who manages her household well](/proverbs/31-27 "Proverbs 31:27 - The Virtuous Woman's Diligence and Wisdom").

**Is the "strange woman" only a literal adulteress, or does she represent something more?**

Answer: While the "strange woman" (or "foreign woman") in Proverbs certainly refers to a literal adulteress or prostitute, she also serves as a powerful **symbol** for folly, temptation, and all forms of ungodly wisdom that lead one away from God's path. She embodies the allure of sin and the world's deceptive promises, which ultimately lead to destruction and spiritual death. Therefore, the warnings against her are applicable not only to sexual purity but also to discerning all forms of moral compromise and spiritual deviation. This broader symbolic meaning is evident when contrasted with Lady Wisdom, who also calls out to people, but offers life and understanding ([Proverbs 8:1-3](/proverbs/8-1-3 "Proverbs 8:1-3 - The Call of Wisdom")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 7:11, with its vivid portrayal of the "loud and stubborn" woman whose "feet abide not in her house," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the stark contrast between the path of folly and the person of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of true wisdom. The strange woman represents the world's chaotic, rebellious, and destructive allure, drawing people away from God's order and peace. In contrast, Christ is the ultimate **Wisdom of God** ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, Our Wisdom and Sanctification")), perfectly humble, obedient, and submissive to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). While the strange woman leads to a "house" of death and the grave ([Proverbs 7:27](/proverbs/7-27 "Proverbs 7:27 - Her House Leads to Death")), Jesus offers true rest and a dwelling place in Him, inviting all who are weary and burdened to find solace for their souls ([Matthew 11:28-29](/matthew/11-28-29 "Matthew 11:28-29 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary and Burdened")). He is the one who establishes true order, brings us into the Father's house—a place of peace and eternal security—and prepares a dwelling place for us there ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "John 14:2-3 - Many Rooms in My Father's House")). The warning against the strange woman's restless, boundary-defying nature ultimately points to the profound need for Christ's redemption, which transforms rebellious hearts into humble ones and leads us from the path of destruction to the path of life, where we can truly "abide" in Him, finding our rest and purpose ([John 15:4-5](/john/15-4-5 "John 15:4-5 - Abide in Me, and I in You")).

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

Proverbs 9:13

¶ A foolish woman [is] clamorous: [she is] simple, and knoweth nothing.

Titus 2:5

[To be] discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Proverbs 31:10

¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price [is] far above rubies.

Proverbs 31:31

Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

1 Timothy 5:13

And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

1 Timothy 5:14

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

Proverbs 25:24

¶ [It is] better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.