Proverbs 5:4 - but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword.
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What does "Proverbs 5:4" mean?
Proverbs 5:4, "but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword," is a warning against the allure of illicit relationships, particularly adultery. Let's break down the imagery:
"In the end..." This phrase is crucial. It emphasizes that while the initial stages of a forbidden relationship might seem enticing or pleasurable, the long-term consequences are devastating.
"Bitter as wormwood..." Wormwood is an herb known for its extremely bitter taste. It was often used as a metaphor for something unpleasant, poisonous, or deeply distressing. This symbolizes the lasting pain, regret, and emotional damage that result from infidelity or immoral behavior.
"Sharp as a two-edged sword..." A two-edged sword cuts both ways. This symbolizes the multifaceted harm caused by such relationships. It can inflict pain on:
The person engaging in the relationship.
Their spouse or partner.
Their family and loved ones.
The person they are having the affair with and their family.
Their reputation and social standing.
Their conscience.
In Summary:
The verse is a vivid metaphor to illustrate the ultimate consequences of choosing a path of sexual immorality. The initial pleasure or excitement is fleeting, and what remains is a legacy of bitterness, pain, and destruction that affects many lives. It warns that giving in to temptation leads to devastating and lasting repercussions.
Context is important:
It's always helpful to read the surrounding verses in Proverbs 5 to get a full understanding of the passage. The chapter as a whole cautions against adultery and encourages faithfulness within marriage.
Proverbs 5:4 - but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword.
What does "Proverbs 5:4" mean?
Proverbs 5:4, "but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword," is a warning against the allure of illicit relationships, particularly adultery. Let's break down the imagery:
"In the end..." This phrase is crucial. It emphasizes that while the initial stages of a forbidden relationship might seem enticing or pleasurable, the long-term consequences are devastating.
"Bitter as wormwood..." Wormwood is an herb known for its extremely bitter taste. It was often used as a metaphor for something unpleasant, poisonous, or deeply distressing. This symbolizes the lasting pain, regret, and emotional damage that result from infidelity or immoral behavior.
"Sharp as a two-edged sword..." A two-edged sword cuts both ways. This symbolizes the multifaceted harm caused by such relationships. It can inflict pain on:
The person engaging in the relationship.
Their spouse or partner.
Their family and loved ones.
The person they are having the affair with and their family.
Their reputation and social standing.
Their conscience.
In Summary:
The verse is a vivid metaphor to illustrate the ultimate consequences of choosing a path of sexual immorality. The initial pleasure or excitement is fleeting, and what remains is a legacy of bitterness, pain, and destruction that affects many lives. It warns that giving in to temptation leads to devastating and lasting repercussions.
Context is important:
It's always helpful to read the surrounding verses in Proverbs 5 to get a full understanding of the passage. The chapter as a whole cautions against adultery and encourages faithfulness within marriage.