Proverbs 7 Study Notes

7:1-5 This section may connect with 6:20-24 to conclude the speech begun there, or it may introduce 7:6-27. The origin of the Hebrew word translated pupil is “little man,” the tiny reflection one sees in another person’s eye. Because the eye is sensitive yet indispensable, it is closely guarded (Dt 32:10; Zch 2:8). To write something on the heart is to internalize it so that it directs one’s actions (2:1-4; 6:20-24; Jr 17:1; 31:31-34). On forbidden woman . . . wayward woman, and flattering talk, see note at 2:16-17.

7:6 In ancient times a window had a lattice that let in light and air (Jdg 5:28; 2Kg 1:2; Sg 2:9).

7:7 The young man whom Solomon observed had not yet acquired protection by committing himself to wisdom and discretion (1:4; 2:11; 4:6). Youths is literally “sons.” On inexperienced, see note at 1:4; on lacking sense, see note at 6:30-33.

7:8-10 Hidden agenda is literally “a guarded heart.” She is cunning.

7:11 The word translated loud implies restless movement as well as noise—commotion (1:21); uproar (1Kg 1:41).

7:12 Lurks is literally “ambush” (1:11; 23:28; 24:15; Dt 19:11).

7:13 To speak brazenly is to lie with arrogance (21:29).

7:14-15 She includes religion in her lie. Her flattery includes the lie that she searched specifically for him. In reality she was on the hunt for any vulnerable young man.

7:16-17 She seduces him by describing her bed (cp. 31:22) with its luxurious and suggestive perfumes (cp. Sg 4:14).

7:18 Drink deeply is the same Hebrew word as “satisfy” in 5:19; she claims to offer what only a wife should give (Sg 5:1). This is not true love but lust (2Sm 13:1; Hs 8:9; cp. Sg 8:6-7).

7:19-20 She promises they will not get caught, ignoring the eternal consequences of their sin (v. 23). The length of the husband’s business trip is indicated by the amount of money he brought along.

7:21 She is very persuasive. Flattering talk is literally “smoothness of lips.” Lures implies to forcefully lead astray.

7:22 Impulsively is literally “suddenly” (see note at 6:15).

7:23 The liver was considered the reservoir of lifeblood. A snare seems attractive but is deadly (22:5; Jos 23:13; Am 3:5; cp. Pr 1:17-18). On he doesn’t know, see note at 4:10-19.

7:24-25 To stray means to wander about as if lost or drunk.

7:26 Brought many down to death and victims are military terms.

7:27 On Sheol, see note at 1:12-13. She lures youths to eternal death (2:18; 5:5,23).