Proverbs 6:29

So is he who sleeps with another man's wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.

Study Bible

So is he
This phrase serves as a direct comparison, linking the preceding verses to the consequences of adultery. In the Hebrew text, the word "כֵּן" (ken) is used, which means "thus" or "so." It emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of the outcome. The comparison is to the dangers of playing with fire, as mentioned in the previous verses, underscoring the serious nature of the sin of adultery.

who sleeps
The Hebrew word "בָּא" (ba) is used here, which means "to come" or "to enter." In this context, it is a euphemism for engaging in sexual relations. This word choice highlights the intimate and personal nature of the sin, emphasizing the violation of the marriage covenant, which is sacred and ordained by God.

with another man's wife
This phrase underscores the specific sin of adultery, which is condemned throughout Scripture. The Hebrew word for "wife" is "אֵשֶׁת" (eshet), indicating a woman who is in a covenant relationship with her husband. The act of adultery is not just a sin against the individuals involved but a violation of the divine institution of marriage, which is meant to reflect God's covenantal relationship with His people.

no one who touches her
The word "touches" in Hebrew is "נֹגֵעַ" (nogea), which can mean to physically touch or to have sexual relations. This phrase implies that even the act of approaching or engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a married woman is sinful. It serves as a warning against even the initial steps that lead to adultery, emphasizing the need for purity and self-control.

will go unpunished
The Hebrew word "יִנָּקֶה" (yinakeh) means "to be acquitted" or "to be free from guilt." This phrase assures that there are consequences for the sin of adultery. In a historical and scriptural context, this punishment could be both divine and societal. The certainty of punishment serves as a deterrent, reminding believers of God's justice and the importance of adhering to His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He wrote Proverbs to impart wisdom and moral instruction.

2. Adulterer
The person who engages in a sexual relationship with someone else's spouse, which is the focus of this verse.

3. Adulteress
The woman involved in the adulterous relationship, representing the temptation and moral failure discussed in the passage.

4. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context in which these proverbs were written, where adultery was a serious offense with both social and spiritual consequences.

5. God's Law
The divine commandments given to the Israelites, which include prohibitions against adultery, reflecting God's standards for moral conduct.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Adultery
Adultery is not just a personal failing but a violation of God's law, with inevitable consequences. It disrupts families and communities and damages one's relationship with God.

Consequences of Sin
The verse underscores that sin, particularly adultery, carries unavoidable consequences. This serves as a warning to consider the long-term impact of our actions.

Guarding the Heart
As Jesus taught, sin begins in the heart. Believers are called to guard their hearts against lust and temptation, seeking purity in thought and deed.

The Importance of Fidelity
Faithfulness in marriage reflects God's faithfulness to us. Upholding the sanctity of marriage honors God and strengthens the family unit.

Repentance and Restoration
While the verse warns of punishment, the broader biblical account offers hope for repentance and restoration through Christ. Believers are encouraged to seek forgiveness and healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the cultural context of ancient Israel enhance our comprehension of the seriousness of adultery in Proverbs 6:29?

2. In what ways can we apply the teachings of Proverbs 6:29 to modern-day relationships and marriages?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 5:27-28 expand our understanding of the sin of adultery beyond physical actions?

4. What practical steps can we take to guard our hearts against the temptations that lead to adultery, as advised in Proverbs 6:29?

5. How can the principles of repentance and restoration be applied to someone who has fallen into the sin of adultery, according to biblical teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:14
The commandment "You shall not commit adultery" directly relates to the warning in Proverbs 6:29, emphasizing the seriousness of this sin.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the concept of adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are equivalent to the act, highlighting the heart's condition.

1 Corinthians 6:18
Paul advises believers to flee from sexual immorality, reinforcing the idea that such sins have profound personal and spiritual consequences.