Proverbs 23:28 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 23:28 mean?

Proverbs 23:28 describes a dangerous woman as someone who waits in ambush like a predator and causes more men to become wrongdoers. The verse uses the image of a hunter lying in wait to warn about the destructive influence she can have on those around her.

In this part of Proverbs, a father is warning his son about the dangers of being seduced or led astray by someone with bad intentions. The verse paints a vivid picture of temptation as something active and harmful, not just a passive risk. The focus is on the real consequences—more people end up breaking moral boundaries because of her actions.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 23:28

• "lieth in wait" (אָרְבָה, ʾarvah): This word means to lurk or ambush, like a hunter or a thief. It shows that the danger is not accidental but intentional and planned.
• "prey" (חָלָל, ḥalal): This word refers to a victim or something hunted. The verse compares the woman’s actions to a predator seeking out someone to harm.
• "increaseth" (יָסַף, yasaf): This word means to add or multiply. The verse is saying that her influence leads to more and more people becoming transgressors.
• "transgressors" (בּוֹגֵד, boged): This word refers to those who act unfaithfully or betray trust. It highlights the moral and relational damage caused.
• "men" (אָדָם, adam): This is the general word for people or mankind, showing that the warning is broad and not limited to one individual.

Why Proverbs 23:28 matters

• The verse clarifies that temptation is not just a personal struggle but can be an active threat that seeks out victims, making the warning more urgent.
• By using strong imagery, Proverbs 23:28 emphasizes the seriousness of ignoring wisdom and the ripple effect of one person’s harmful influence.
• This verse connects to the wider passage, which warns against various traps in life, helping the reader see how personal choices can affect the larger community.