Proverbs 2:19
None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
בָּ֭אֶיהָ
None that go
H935
בָּ֭אֶיהָ
None that go
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
2 of 8
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
לֹ֣א
H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יְשׁוּב֑וּן
unto her return again
H7725
יְשׁוּב֑וּן
unto her return again
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
4 of 8
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יַ֝שִּׂ֗יגוּ
neither take they hold
H5381
יַ֝שִּׂ֗יגוּ
neither take they hold
Strong's:
H5381
Word #:
6 of 8
to reach (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Historical Context
Mosaic Law prescribed death for adultery (Leviticus 20:10), demonstrating its covenant-breaking severity. Though David was forgiven for adultery with Bathsheba, consequences plagued his household perpetually (2 Samuel 12:10-14), exemplifying this proverb's warning.
Questions for Reflection
- How should the irreversible consequences of sin motivate present obedience?
- What safeguards can protect you from paths that promise pleasure but deliver permanent loss?
- How does God's forgiveness coexist with enduring consequences of sin?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The Hebrew 'shuwb' (return) emphasizes the irreversible consequences of adultery. While forgiveness is possible, the practical devastation remains - broken families, destroyed trust, lost innocacy. The 'paths of life' represent not just physical existence but abundant life characterized by shalom (peace, wholeness). Adultery permanently alters one's life trajectory, illustrating that sin's consequences extend beyond momentary pleasure to lifelong impact.