Proverbs 7 The Seduction of the Adulteress

The subject continued, by a delineation of the arts of strange women, as a caution to the unwary

1-4

Similar calls (Pr 3:1-3; 4:10, &c.).

2

apple... eye — pupil of eye, a custody (Pr 4:23) of special value.

3

Bind... fingers — as inscriptions on rings.

5

The design of the teaching (compare Pr 2:16; 6:24).

6

For — or, "Since," introducing an example to illustrate the warning, which, whether a narrative or a parable, is equally pertinent. window — or, "opening" looked — literally, "watched earnestly" (Jud 5:28). casement — or, "lattice."

7

simple — as in Pr 1:4. void of, &c. — (Compare Pr 6:32).

8

her corner — where she was usually found. went... house — implying, perhaps, confidence in himself by his manner, as denoted in the word went — literally, "tread pompously."

9

The time, twilight, ending in darkness. black... night — literally, "pupil," or, "eye," that is, middle of night.

10

attire — that of harlots was sometimes peculiar. subtile — or, "wary," "cunning."

11,12

loud — or, "noisy," "bustling." stubborn — not submissive. without... streets,... corner — (Compare 1Ti 5:13; Tit 2:5).

13-15

The preparations for a feast do not necessarily imply peculiar religious professions. The offerer retained part of the victim for a feast (Le 3:9, &c.). This feast she professes was prepared for him whom she boldly addresses as one sought specially to partake of it.

16,17

my bed — or, "couch," adorned in the costliest manner.

17

bed — a place for sleeping.

18-20

There is no fear of discovery.

20

the day appointed — perhaps, literally, "a full moon," that is, a fortnight's time (compare Pr 7:19).

21

caused... yield — or, "inclines." flattering — (Compare Pr 5:3). forced him — by persuasion overcoming his scruples.

22

straightway — quickly, either as ignorant of danger, or incapable of resistance.

23

Till — He is now caught (Pr 6:26).

24

The inferential admonition is followed (Pr 7:26, 27), by a more general allegation of the evils of this vice.

26,27

Even the mightiest fail to resist her deathly allurements.