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Proverbs 6

35 verses

TL;DR

This chapter warns against foolish behavior such as becoming a surety for a stranger, sloth, and wickedness, while urging diligence, obedience to parental commands, and avoidance of adultery.

Summary

Proverbs 6 opens with a cautionary tale about the dangers of being a surety for a stranger, highlighting how such a binding can entrap one in debt. The chapter then turns to the admonition of the sluggard, comparing him to the industrious ant that gathers food in summer and stores it for the winter. It lists seven traits that the LORD hates, including pride, lying, and sowing discord. The passage emphasizes the importance of keeping parental commands, depicting them as a lamp and light that guide one in all times. Finally, the text warns against the perilous allure of an adulterous woman, using vivid imagery of fire and violence to illustrate the ruinous consequences of adultery, and also touches upon the moral treatment of thieves.

Outline
  1. Warning against becoming a surety and the peril of sloth (vs 1‑12)
  2. Enumeration of wickedness and the seven sins detested by God (vs 13‑19)
  3. The value of parental instruction and avoidance of sexual sin (vs 20‑35)
Themes
Diligence versus lazinessThe gravity of moral sinThe guiding authority of parental wisdom
Keywords
SuretySluggardAntWickednessCommandmentAdulteryThiefProverbs
People
SonFriendLORD
Places
Things
SuretyAntSleepWickednessCommandmentLawLampLightAdulterous womanFireThiefRansomVenom
Key Verses
  • Proverbs 6:6: Illustrates diligence by using the ant as a model
  • Proverbs 6:13: Introduces the list of sins that the LORD hates
  • Proverbs 6:23: Reveals the function of commandments as a lamp and light
  • Proverbs 6:32: Highlights the self‑destructive nature of adultery
Questions
  • What practical steps can I take to avoid becoming a surety for others?
  • How does the ant serve as a model for Christian work ethic?
  • Why does the text link obedience to parental instruction with spiritual safety?
  • What does the passage say about the consequences of adultery?
  • How do the listed sins relate to modern moral challenges?
Sentiment

mixed
Contains both stern warnings and encouraging advice, balancing negative admonition with hopeful guidance.