Proverbs 27:15
A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Proverbs 19:13A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.Proverbs 21:9It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.Proverbs 21:19It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.Proverbs 25:24It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.
Historical Context
Palestinian homes had flat roofs of clay and straw that could develop leaks during rainy season. The constant dripping would be maddening, disrupting sleep and daily activities. Ancient wisdom literature across cultures warned about domestic strife destroying household peace.
Questions for Reflection
- What patterns of criticism or complaining in your relationships create the 'dripping' effect that wears others down?
- How can a gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4) counteract tendencies toward contentiousness?
- If you're experiencing this dynamic in marriage, what biblical steps toward peace and reconciliation can you take?
Analysis & Commentary
A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike—The Hebrew deled tôrēd (דֶּלֶף טוֹרֵד, continual dropping) describes relentless dripping through a leaky roof. Contentious (midyānîm, מִדְיָנִים) means quarrelsome, argumentative. The comparison is to constant irritation that wears down patience and makes home unbearable.
This is the second of three proverbs about contentious women (19:13, 21:9, 27:15-16), emphasizing the destructive power of chronic conflict in marriage. While gender-specific in expression, the principle applies to any habitually quarrelsome person (26:21). The New Testament calls for gentle, peaceful relationships (1 Peter 3:1-4, Ephesians 4:31-32).