Proverbs 2:19 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 2:19 mean?

Proverbs 2:19 warns that those who follow after the “strange woman” do not return, and they do not find their way back to the paths that lead to life. The verse paints a picture of a path that, once taken, is very hard to leave, with serious and lasting consequences.

In Proverbs 2, a father is urging his son to seek wisdom and avoid the dangers of immoral choices, especially those involving unfaithfulness or adultery. The “her” in this verse refers to the seductive woman described earlier, whose way leads away from life and goodness. The verse uses strong language to stress how difficult it is to escape once someone has chosen this path, highlighting the seriousness of the warning.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 2:19

• “Go” (בּוֹא, bo’): This word means to enter or go into. Here, it emphasizes the act of choosing to follow the woman’s way, not just a casual encounter.
• “Again” (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to return or turn back. The verse uses it to stress that those who go down this path rarely come back or change direction.
• “Hold” (תָּפַשׂ, taphas): This word means to grasp or take hold. The idea is that people do not grab onto or regain the “paths of life” after going astray.
• “Paths” (נָתִיב, nativ): This word refers to well-worn tracks or ways, suggesting established, reliable ways of living.
• “Life” (חַי, chai): This word means life in a broad sense—physical, moral, and spiritual well-being.

Why Proverbs 2:19 matters

• Proverbs 2:19 clears up any idea that following temptation is a minor detour; it shows that some choices deeply affect a person’s future and are not easily undone.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of the father’s warning, showing that wisdom is not just about knowledge but about choosing paths that preserve life and wholeness.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the contrast between the way of wisdom and the way of folly, urging the reader to consider the long-term outcome of their decisions.