Question 1

What does Proverbs 23:28 mean?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 23:28

Accepted Answer

"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.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 23:28 matters

Accepted Answer

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.

Proverbs 23:28 (KJV)