Proverbs 5:18 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 5:18 mean?

Proverbs 5:18 encourages a person to find blessing and joy in their own marriage, specifically with the wife they married when they were young. The verse highlights the value of faithfulness and delight within the marriage relationship.

In the book of Proverbs, a father is giving wisdom to his son about living well and avoiding the dangers of unfaithfulness. This verse comes in a section warning against adultery, and it shifts the focus to the positive—celebrating and cherishing one’s own spouse. The language uses imagery of a “fountain” to describe the source of blessing and life that a committed marriage can be.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 5:18

• fountain (מָקוֹר, maqor): This word often refers to a spring or source of water, symbolizing life and vitality. Here, it points to the marriage relationship as a source of blessing and joy.
• blessed (בָּרוּךְ, barukh): The term means to be favored or made prosperous. The verse asks for the marriage relationship to be marked by God’s favor.
• rejoice (שָׂמַח, samach): This word means to be glad or take delight. The instruction is not just to endure marriage, but to actively find joy in it.
• wife (אִשָּׁה, ishah): The term simply means “woman” or “wife,” but here it emphasizes the personal, relational aspect.
• youth (נְעוּרִים, ne’urim): This word refers to the early years of adulthood, highlighting the long-standing nature of the relationship being celebrated.

Why Proverbs 5:18 matters

• Proverbs 5:18 clears up the idea that marriage is only about duty by emphasizing joy and blessing within the relationship.
• The verse shifts the focus from warnings about unfaithfulness to a positive vision for marriage, encouraging lasting delight in one’s spouse.
• Proverbs 5:18 connects to the larger passage by showing that wisdom is not just about avoiding wrong, but also about pursuing what is good and life-giving.