Proverbs 6:15

Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery.

Study Bible

Therefore
This word serves as a conclusion or result of the preceding verses, which describe the behaviors and characteristics of a wicked person. In the Hebrew text, the word "לָכֵן" (lakhen) is used, indicating a logical consequence. It emphasizes the certainty of the outcome for those who engage in deceit and malice. The use of "therefore" underscores the divine justice that is inherent in God's moral order.

calamity
The Hebrew word for "calamity" is "אֵיד" (ed), which conveys a sense of disaster or ruin. This term is often associated with divine judgment in the Old Testament. It reflects the inevitable downfall that comes as a result of living a life contrary to God's wisdom. The use of "calamity" here serves as a warning that the consequences of sin are severe and unavoidable.

will come upon him suddenly
The phrase "will come upon him suddenly" highlights the unexpected and swift nature of the judgment. The Hebrew word "פִּתְאֹם" (pit'om) means suddenly or unexpectedly. This suddenness is a common theme in wisdom literature, emphasizing that those who live in sin may feel secure, but their downfall can occur without warning. It serves as a reminder to live righteously and be prepared for God's judgment at any moment.

in an instant
The phrase "in an instant" further emphasizes the rapidity of the impending judgment. The Hebrew "רֶגַע" (rega) means a moment or a brief period of time. This reinforces the idea that the consequences of sin can be immediate and irreversible. It serves as a call to repentance and a life aligned with God's wisdom, as there may not be time to change once judgment begins.

he will be shattered
The word "shattered" comes from the Hebrew "שָׁבַר" (shabar), which means to break or destroy. This term conveys the totality and severity of the judgment. It suggests not just a fall, but a complete and utter destruction. The imagery of being shattered indicates that the wicked will be left in a state of ruin, unable to recover from the consequences of their actions.

beyond recovery
The phrase "beyond recovery" translates the Hebrew "וְאֵין מַרְפֵּא" (ve'ein marpe), meaning without healing or remedy. This indicates the finality of the judgment. Once the calamity has come, there is no possibility of restoration or healing. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the importance of seeking God's wisdom and forgiveness before it is too late.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wicked Person
This verse refers to a person who engages in deceitful and malicious behavior, as described in the preceding verses of Proverbs 6. This individual is characterized by a heart that devises wicked plans and feet that are swift to run to evil.

2. Calamity
The sudden disaster or misfortune that befalls the wicked person as a consequence of their actions. It is a divine judgment that comes unexpectedly.

3. Solomon
The author of Proverbs, traditionally believed to be King Solomon, who imparts wisdom through these sayings. His intent is to guide the reader towards a life of righteousness and away from folly.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Divine Justice
God's justice is inevitable. Those who persist in wickedness will face consequences, often when they least expect it.

The Suddenness of Judgment
Calamity comes "suddenly" and "in an instant," reminding us that we cannot predict or escape the consequences of sin.

The Irreversibility of Consequences
The phrase "beyond recovery" highlights the finality of divine judgment. It serves as a warning to repent and turn from wicked ways before it's too late.

The Call to Righteous Living
This verse encourages believers to pursue righteousness and avoid deceitful behavior, knowing that God sees all and will judge accordingly.

The Importance of Heeding Wisdom
Proverbs consistently calls us to seek wisdom and understanding, which protect us from the path that leads to destruction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the wicked person in Proverbs 6:12-14 help us understand the context of verse 15?

2. In what ways can we see the principle of "sudden calamity" at work in the world today?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message of Proverbs 6:15?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are living in a way that aligns with God's wisdom and avoids the path of the wicked?

5. How can we encourage others in our community to heed the warnings of Proverbs and pursue a life of righteousness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 1:27-28
This passage also speaks of sudden calamity coming upon those who reject wisdom, emphasizing the inevitability of divine justice.

Galatians 6:7-8
Paul warns that a person reaps what they sow, reinforcing the idea that wicked actions lead to destructive consequences.

Matthew 7:26-27
Jesus describes the foolish man who builds his house on sand, which collapses when storms come, illustrating the fate of those who ignore His teachings.