Proverbs 7:8
Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,
Original Language Analysis
עֹבֵ֣ר
Passing through
H5674
עֹבֵ֣ר
Passing through
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
1 of 7
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
פִּנָּ֑הּ
H6438
פִּנָּ֑הּ
Strong's:
H6438
Word #:
4 of 7
an angle; by implication, a pinnacle; figuratively, a chieftain
וְדֶ֖רֶךְ
the way
H1870
וְדֶ֖רֶךְ
the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
5 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
Historical Context
Ancient cities' narrow streets and courtyards made privacy difficult. 'Her corner' likely refers to known locations where prostitutes solicited customers, making avoidance a conscious choice requiring altered routes.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'corners' or situations do you need to avoid rather than trusting your ability to resist temptation?
- How does understanding sin's progressive nature change your approach to holy living?
- In what areas of life are you 'near the corner' when you should be far from it?
Analysis & Commentary
The path to sin is described as passing 'near her corner' and taking 'the way to her house.' Sin rarely happens instantly; it begins with proximity and small compromises. The Reformed understanding of progressive sanctification recognizes that we must avoid the path to sin, not just the act itself. Joseph fled from Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39:12), exemplifying this wisdom. This verse teaches that victory over temptation often means avoiding situations where we're vulnerable, not trusting our strength when already near danger.