Proverbs 6:35 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 6:35 mean?

Proverbs 6:35 says that no amount of payment or gifts will satisfy or calm the anger of a wronged husband; he will not accept any compensation. The verse warns that when someone has committed adultery, the offended spouse cannot be bribed or persuaded to forgive with material offerings.

This verse comes from a section where a father warns his son about the dangers of adultery. The focus is on the seriousness of betraying another person’s marriage, showing that the emotional consequences are so deep that no ransom or gift can make things right. The verse highlights the lasting and intense anger that follows such a betrayal.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:35

• “Regard” (נָשָׂא פָּנִים, nāśāʾ pānîm): This phrase means to lift up the face, often understood as showing favor or accepting something. Here, it emphasizes that the wronged husband will not show favor or accept any offer.
• “Ransom” (כֹּפֶר, kōfer): This word refers to a payment made to secure release or forgiveness. The verse stresses that even a ransom, which might settle other disputes, is useless in this situation.
• “Content” (אָבָה, ʾāvāh): This verb means to be willing or satisfied. The verse points out that the husband will not be satisfied or willing to forgive, no matter what is offered.
• “Many” (רַב, rav): This word means numerous or much. The verse underlines that even a great quantity of gifts will not change the outcome.
• “Gifts” (שֹׁחַד, shōḥad): This word means a bribe or present, usually given to influence someone. Here, it shows that even bribes or generous gifts cannot buy peace or forgiveness in this context.

Why Proverbs 6:35 matters

• Proverbs 6:35 clears up the idea that some wrongs can be fixed with money or gifts; it shows that certain betrayals, like adultery, have consequences that cannot be undone by material compensation.
• The verse emphasizes the emotional weight and seriousness of adultery, warning that it leads to lasting anger and broken trust.
• This verse connects to the larger warning in Proverbs 6 against adultery, highlighting that the fallout is not just personal guilt but also the unyielding anger of those betrayed.