Proverbs 7:20

He took with him a bag of money and will not return till the moon is full."

Study Bible

He took with him a bag of money
This phrase suggests premeditation and planning. The "bag of money" indicates that the husband in the narrative has prepared for a long journey, ensuring he has the necessary resources. In the Hebrew context, money was often carried in bags or pouches, a common practice in ancient times. This detail underscores the husband's absence and the opportunity it provides for the adulterous affair. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the dangers of neglect and the importance of vigilance in relationships.

and will not return till the moon is full
The phrase "till the moon is full" indicates a specific time frame, suggesting a period of approximately a month. In ancient Israel, the lunar calendar was used, and the full moon marked the middle of the month. This detail emphasizes the length of the husband's absence, providing ample time for the seduction to occur. Spiritually, it highlights the concept of temptation exploiting moments of vulnerability and absence, urging believers to remain steadfast and alert even when accountability seems distant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Adulterous Woman
In the context of Proverbs 7, she is a symbol of temptation and unfaithfulness, luring the young man into sin.

2. The Young Man
Represents those who are naive or lacking wisdom, easily swayed by temptation.

3. The Husband
The absent figure in the account, whose journey and return are used to illustrate the time frame of the young man's temptation.

4. The House
The setting where the seduction takes place, symbolizing a place of moral danger.

5. The Full Moon
Represents a specific time frame, indicating the duration of the husband's absence and the opportunity for sin.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Temptation
Temptation often presents itself when we are least prepared. We must be vigilant and grounded in God's Word to resist.

The Importance of Wisdom
Proverbs consistently emphasizes the need for wisdom and discernment to avoid the pitfalls of sin.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin may seem appealing in the moment, but it leads to destruction and regret. We must consider the long-term consequences of our actions.

The Role of Accountability
Having accountability partners can help us stay on the right path and avoid situations that lead to temptation.

The Value of Faithfulness
Faithfulness in relationships reflects our faithfulness to God. We must strive to honor our commitments and live with integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the absence of the husband in Proverbs 7:20 create an opportunity for temptation, and what can we learn about avoiding such situations in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the young man's lack of wisdom contribute to his downfall, and how can we cultivate wisdom to protect ourselves from similar temptations?

3. How does the imagery of the "full moon" in Proverbs 7:20 help us understand the nature of temptation and the importance of timing in resisting sin?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful in our relationships, both with others and with God?

5. How do the themes of Proverbs 7:20 connect with the warnings against temptation and sin found in James 1:14-15, and how can we apply these lessons to our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 5:15-23
This passage warns against adultery and emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in marriage, paralleling the themes of temptation and unfaithfulness in Proverbs 7.

1 Corinthians 10:13
This verse speaks to the concept of temptation and God's faithfulness in providing a way out, relevant to the young man's situation in Proverbs 7.

James 1:14-15
These verses describe the process of temptation leading to sin, which aligns with the account of the young man's seduction.