Proverbs 7

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Introduction

The subject continued, by a delineation of the arts of strange women, as a caution to the unwary. (Pro. 7:1-27) Similar calls (Pro 3:1-3; Pro 4:10, &c.).

Verse 2

apple . . . eye--pupil of eye, a custody (Pro 4:23) of special value.

Verse 3

Bind . . . fingers--as inscriptions on rings.

Verse 5

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

Verse 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" (Jdg 5:28). casement--or, "lattice."

Verse 7

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

Verse 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."

Verse 9

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

Verse 10

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

Verse 11

loud--or, "noisy," "bustling." stubborn--not submissive. without . . . streets, . . . corner--(Compare Ti1 5:13; Tit 2:5).

Verse 13

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

Verse 16

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

Verse 17

bed--a place for sleeping.

Verse 18

There is no fear of discovery.

Verse 20

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

Verse 21

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

Verse 22

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

Verse 23

Till--He is now caught (Pro 6:26).

Verse 24

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

Verse 26

Even the mightiest fail to resist her deathly allurements. Next: Proverbs Chapter 8