Proverbs 7:13

So she caught him, and kissed him, [and] with an impudent face said unto him,

So she caught {H2388} him, and kissed {H5401} him, and with an impudent {H5810} face {H6440} said {H559} unto him,

She grabs him, gives him a kiss, and, brazen-faced, she says to him,

She seizes him and kisses him; she brazenly says to him:

So she caught him, and kissed him, Andwith an impudent face she said unto him:

Commentary

Proverbs 7:13 is part of a vivid cautionary tale presented by King Solomon to his son, warning against the dangers of sexual immorality and the cunning tactics of the adulteress. This verse describes a pivotal moment in the seduction, immediately following the woman's encounter with a naive young man in the streets, as detailed from Proverbs 7:6 onwards.

Context

The preceding verses portray the "strange woman" (or adulteress, also described in Proverbs 2:16 and Proverbs 5:3) as actively seeking out her prey. She is depicted as dressed provocatively, lurking in the twilight, and now, in verse 13, she initiates direct physical contact. This passage serves as a stark warning about the aggressive and deceptive nature of temptation, particularly in the realm of sexual sin.

Key Themes

  • Aggressive Temptation: The woman does not wait for the young man to approach; she "caught him, and kissed him." This highlights the bold, proactive, and often physical nature of temptation, which can overpower the unwary.
  • Shamelessness and Impudence: Her "impudent face" signifies a complete lack of shame, moral inhibition, or modesty. This brazenness is a hallmark of those who have abandoned moral boundaries and are intent on pursuing their desires without regard for consequences or righteousness.
  • The Allure of Sin: The scene underscores how sin often presents itself with a deceptive charm and direct appeal, making it difficult for those lacking discernment to resist.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "impudent face" in the King James Version translates the Hebrew `'oz panim` (Χ’Χ– ׀נים). Literally, this means "strength of face" or "boldness of face." It conveys a sense of shamelessness, effrontery, and an unblushing audacity. This characteristic is a direct opposite of modesty and humility, and it signals a dangerous disregard for social and divine norms. It emphasizes the woman's lack of conscience in her pursuit of the young man.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless wisdom for navigating moral pitfalls:

  • Recognizing Bold Temptation: Be aware that temptation, especially sexual, can be direct, aggressive, and seemingly irresistible. It often involves physical proximity and bold advances.
  • Discerning Character: The "impudent face" is a spiritual warning sign. A lack of shame or a brazen attitude towards sin is a red flag. Wisdom calls us to discern the character of those who seek to draw us away from righteousness.
  • Fleeing Immorality: The Bible consistently advises us to flee sexual immorality. This passage illustrates why: the seductive power of temptation can quickly lead to compromise.
  • Cultivating Discernment: Just as the naive young man lacked discernment, we are called to cultivate wisdom through God's Word (Proverbs 4:7) to recognize and resist such advances, choosing the path of righteousness.
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Cross-References

  • Numbers 25:6

    ΒΆ And, behold, one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who [were] weeping [before] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

  • Numbers 25:8

    And he went after the man of Israel into the tent, and thrust both of them through, the man of Israel, and the woman through her belly. So the plague was stayed from the children of Israel.

  • Genesis 39:12

    And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.

  • Ezekiel 2:4

    For [they are] impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD.

  • Isaiah 50:7

    For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.

  • Revelation 2:20

    Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

  • Ezekiel 2:6

    ΒΆ And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns [be] with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they [be] a rebellious house.