Proverbs 7:22

He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

He goeth {H1980} after {H310} her straightway {H6597}, as an ox {H7794} goeth {H935} to the slaughter {H2874}, or as a fool {H191} to the correction {H4148} of the stocks {H5914};

At once he follows her like an ox on its way to be slaughtered; like a fool to be punished in the stocks;

He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,

He goeth after her straightway, As an ox goeth to the slaughter, Or asone infetters to the correction of the fool;

Commentary

Proverbs 7:22 offers a stark and vivid illustration of the unsuspecting victim's plight when ensnared by the temptations of an adulteress. The verse paints a tragic picture of a young man's immediate and unwitting descent towards destruction, likening his foolish actions to an animal unknowingly heading to slaughter or a fool stubbornly walking into inevitable punishment.

Context

This verse is a pivotal part of a father's urgent warning to his son against the dangers of sexual immorality, detailed throughout Proverbs 7. The preceding verses (Proverbs 7:6-21) describe the seductive tactics of the adulteress: her attire, her flattering words, and her deceptive promises. The young man, lacking discretion and wisdom, is shown to be easily led astray. Proverbs 7:22 then serves as a powerful simile, emphasizing the dire and often unforeseen consequences for those who fall prey to such enticements, leading directly into the chapter's final, sobering admonition to heed wisdom's call.

Key Themes

  • The Blindness of Folly: The imagery of the ox going to slaughter powerfully conveys the victim's ignorance of the impending doom. He is depicted as moving "straightway," or immediately, without hesitation or foresight, towards his own ruin.
  • Inevitable Consequences of Sin: The comparison to a "fool to the correction of the stocks" highlights the painful and inescapable nature of the repercussions for those who disregard wisdom. Just as a fool repeatedly faces punishment due to their lack of understanding or refusal to learn, so too does the one ensnared by lust face severe consequences.
  • The Destructive Nature of Adultery: This verse underscores the profound dangers of sexual sin, portraying it not merely as a moral lapse but as a path leading to ultimate destruction, whether social, physical, or spiritual. The book of Proverbs consistently warns against this specific sin, as seen in Proverbs 5:5 and Proverbs 6:26.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "straightway" is petha'om (ืคึผึดืชึฐืึนื), meaning "suddenly," "instantly," or "without warning." This emphasizes the swift and thoughtless nature of the young man's decision to follow the seductress, highlighting his lack of deliberation and critical thinking in the face of temptation. The "stocks" (ekes, ืึถื›ึถืก) refer to a device used for restraining and punishing criminals, particularly their feet, leading to discomfort, pain, and public humiliation, underscoring the severity and public nature of the consequences.

Practical Application

Proverbs 7:22 serves as a timeless and urgent warning for all generations. It calls for individuals, especially the young, to cultivate discernment and wisdom to recognize and resist seductive temptations. The verse encourages a thoughtful consideration of the long-term consequences of seemingly appealing choices, rather than acting impulsively. It reminds us that ignorance of the dangers does not negate their reality. Therefore, heeding wise counsel and adhering to God's moral commands, such as the commandment against adultery found in Exodus 20:14, is crucial for navigating life's challenges and avoiding paths that lead to destruction. This vivid imagery compels us to be vigilant and choose the path of wisdom, which leads to life and safety, rather than the path of folly.

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Cross-References

  • Job 13:27 (3 votes)

    Thou puttest my feet also in the stocks, and lookest narrowly unto all my paths; thou settest a print upon the heels of my feet.

  • Acts 16:24 (2 votes)

    Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

  • Jeremiah 20:2 (2 votes)

    Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that [were] in the high gate of Benjamin, which [was] by the house of the LORD.

  • Acts 14:13 (2 votes)

    Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.