Proverbs 2:18 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 2:18 mean?

Proverbs 2:18 warns that the house and way of the seductive or immoral woman lead toward death and the realm of the dead. The verse uses strong language to show that following her path brings serious, even fatal, consequences.

In this part of Proverbs, a father is teaching his son about wisdom and the dangers of being led astray by temptation. The verse uses the image of a house that "inclines" or slopes down toward death, making clear that the outcome of following such a path is not just trouble, but spiritual and physical ruin.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 2:18

• "inclineth" (שָׁחָה, shakhah): This word means to sink down, bow, or lean. Here, it paints a vivid picture of a house sloping downward, emphasizing how easy and natural it is to slide into danger without realizing it.
• "death" (מָוֶת, mavet): This is the common Hebrew word for death, underlining the seriousness of the warning. The verse is not just about trouble or hardship, but about the ultimate end—death itself.
• "paths" (מַעְגָּל, ma‘gal): This word refers to tracks or ruts, suggesting well-worn ways or habits. It hints that this is a common route, not a rare mistake.
• "dead" (רְפָאִים, refa’im): This word often refers to the "shades" or spirits of the dead, especially in the underworld. It adds a sense of finality and separation from the living, deepening the warning.

Why Proverbs 2:18 matters

• Proverbs 2:18 clears up any idea that following temptation is only a minor mistake; it shows the end result is truly destructive.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of Proverbs 2, where wisdom is shown as a safeguard against paths that lead to ruin.
• The imagery of a sloping house and well-worn paths helps readers see that these dangers are both inviting and common, making the warning feel urgent and real.