Proverbs 7:15
Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּ֭ן
H3651
כֵּ֭ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
יָצָ֣אתִי
Therefore came I forth
H3318
יָצָ֣אתִי
Therefore came I forth
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
3 of 7
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
לִקְרָאתֶ֑ךָ
to meet
H7125
לִקְרָאתֶ֑ךָ
to meet
Strong's:
H7125
Word #:
4 of 7
an encountering, accidental, friendly or hostile (also adverbially, opposite)
לְשַׁחֵ֥ר
thee diligently to seek
H7836
לְשַׁחֵ֥ר
thee diligently to seek
Strong's:
H7836
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to dawn, i.e., (figuratively) be (up) early at any task (with the implication of earnestness); by extension, to search for (with painstaking
Historical Context
Flattery appears throughout Proverbs as dangerous tool (26:28, 28:23, 29:5). Sincere praise edifies; flattery manipulates. The distinction: flattery serves speaker's agenda regardless of truth; praise serves truth regardless of speaker's benefit. Discerning the difference requires wisdom and humility - pride makes us susceptible to flattery.
Questions for Reflection
- How does flattery make you vulnerable to manipulation or seduction?
- What differences distinguish sincere affirmation from manipulative flattery?
- How can you receive legitimate praise without becoming proud or susceptible to flattery?
Analysis & Commentary
So I came out to meet you, to seek your face, and I've found you. The Hebrew 'shachar' (seek early/diligently) and 'matsa' (find) describe intentional pursuit. The seductress flatters her target - you're special, I specifically sought you. This personalized approach disarms resistance. Flattery makes us feel valued, lowering defenses. Seduction often involves making targets feel uniquely special and desired.