The Linked Word Project

Introduction to chapter 6

After admonitions against suretyship and sloth (compare Pro 6:6-8), the character and fate of the wicked generally are set forth, and the writer (Pro. 6:20-35) resumes the warnings against incontinence, pointing out its certain and terrible results. This train of thought seems to intimate the kindred of these vices. (Pro. 6:1-35)

if — The condition extends through both verses.

be surety — art pledged.

stricken . . . hand — bargained (compare Job 17:3).

with a stranger — that is, for a friend (compare Pro 11:15; Pro 17:18).

Proverbs 6:3

come . . . friend — in his power.

humble . . . sure thy friend — urge as a suppliant; that is, induce the friend to provide otherwise for his debt, or secure the surety.

Proverbs 6:4

The danger requires promptness.

Proverbs 6:6

The improvident sluggards usually want sureties. Hence, such are advised to industry by the ant's example.

Proverbs 6:9

Their conduct graphically described;

Proverbs 6:11

and the fruits of their self-indulgence and indolence presented.

as . . . travelleth — literally, "one who walks backwards and forwards," that is, a highwayman.

armed man — that is, one prepared to destroy.

Proverbs 6:12

A naughty person — literally, "A man of Belial," or of worthlessness, that is, for good, and so depraved, or wicked (compare Sa1 25:25; Sa1 30:22, &c.). Idleness and vice are allied. Though indolent in acts, he actively and habitually (walketh) is ill-natured in speech (Pro 4:24).

Proverbs 6:13

If, for fear of detection, he does not speak, he uses signs to carry on his intrigues. These signs are still so used in the East.

Proverbs 6:14

Frowardness — as in Pro 2:14.

deviseth — literally, "constructs, as an artisan."

mischief — evil to others.

discord — especially litigation. Cunning is the talent of the weak and lazy.

Proverbs 6:15

Suddenness aggravates evil (compare Pro 6:11; Pro 29:1).

calamity — literally, "a crushing weight."

broken — shivered as a potter's vessel; utterly destroyed (Psa 2:9).

Proverbs 6:16

six . . . seven — a mode of speaking to arrest attention (Pro 30:15, Pro 30:18; Job 5:19).

Proverbs 6:17

proud look — literally, "eyes of loftiness" (Psa 131:1). Eyes, tongue, &c., for persons.

Proverbs 6:19

speaketh — literally, "breathes out," habitually speaks (Psa 27:12; Act 9:1).

Proverbs 6:20

(Compare Pro 1:8; Pro 3:3, &c.).

Proverbs 6:22

it — (compare Pro 6:23); denotes the instruction of parents (Pro 6:20), to which all the qualities of a safe guide and guard and ready teacher are ascribed. It prevents the ingress of evil by supplying good thoughts, even in dreams (Pro 3:21-23; Psa 19:9; Pe2 1:19).

Proverbs 6:23

reproofs — (Pro 1:23) the convictions of error produced by instruction.

Proverbs 6:24

A specimen of its benefit. By appreciating truth, men are not affected by lying flattery.

Proverbs 6:25

One of the cautions of this instruction, avoid alluring beauty.

take — or, "ensnare."

eyelids — By painting the lashes, women enhanced beauty.

Proverbs 6:26

The supplied words give a better sense than the old version: "The price of a whore is a piece of bread."

adulteress — (Compare Margin), which the parallel and context (Pro 6:29-35) sustain. Of similar results of this sin, compare Pro 5:9-12.

will hunt — alluding to the snares spread by harlots (compare Pro 7:6-8).

precious life — more valuable than all else.

Proverbs 6:27

The guilt and danger most obvious.

Proverbs 6:30

Such a thief is pitied, though heavily punished.

Proverbs 6:31

sevenfold — (compare Exo 22:1-4), for many, ample (compare Gen 4:24; Mat 18:21), even if all his wealth is taken.

Proverbs 6:32

lacketh understanding — or, "heart"; destitute of moral principle and prudence.

Proverbs 6:33

dishonour — or, "shame," as well as hurt of body (Pro 3:35).

reproach . . . away — No restitution will suffice;

Proverbs 6:34

nor any terms of reconciliation be admitted.

regard — or, "accept" any ransom.