Proverbs 7:12
Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)
Original Language Analysis
פַּ֥עַם
Now
H6471
פַּ֥עַם
Now
Strong's:
H6471
Word #:
1 of 8
a stroke, literally or figuratively (in various applications, as follow)
בַּח֗וּץ
is she without
H2351
בַּח֗וּץ
is she without
Strong's:
H2351
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, separate by a wall, i.e., outside, outdoors
פַּ֥עַם
Now
H6471
פַּ֥עַם
Now
Strong's:
H6471
Word #:
3 of 8
a stroke, literally or figuratively (in various applications, as follow)
בָּרְחֹב֑וֹת
in the streets
H7339
בָּרְחֹב֑וֹת
in the streets
Strong's:
H7339
Word #:
4 of 8
a width, i.e., (concretely) avenue or area
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Proverbs 23:28She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.Proverbs 9:14For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,Revelation 18:3For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
Historical Context
Ancient marketplaces and public squares were social centers. Prostitutes positioned themselves strategically for maximum visibility. The principle applies broadly: predatory people and influences deliberately inhabit spaces where vulnerable targets congregate. Modern equivalents include bars, certain online spaces, and social contexts that facilitate particular sins.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'corners' do you habitually turn where temptation lurks predictably?
- How can you alter your patterns to avoid places where you're most vulnerable?
- What environmental engineering would reduce your exposure to strategic temptation?
Analysis & Commentary
Now in the streets, now in the squares, lurking at every corner. The Hebrew 'arab' (lie in wait/ambush) describes predatory positioning. The seductress strategically places herself where targets gather. This isn't passive availability but active hunting. Temptation often involves environmental engineering - placing ourselves where we know we're vulnerable. Wisdom requires avoiding dangerous places, not testing our resistance in them.