Proverbs 9:18
But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.
Original Language Analysis
וְֽלֹא
H3808
וְֽלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יָ֭דַע
But he knoweth
H3045
יָ֭דַע
But he knoweth
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
2 of 8
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
3 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
רְפָאִ֣ים
not that the dead
H7496
רְפָאִ֣ים
not that the dead
Strong's:
H7496
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, lax, i.e., (figuratively) a ghost (as dead; in plural only)
שָׁ֑ם
H8033
Historical Context
Throughout Proverbs, the way of the wicked leads to death (2:18-19, 5:5, 7:27). Sheol represents final destruction. While Old Testament theology of afterlife develops progressively, consistent principle holds: sin leads to death. Romans 6:23 universalizes: 'The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.' Folly promises life, delivers death; wisdom promises hardship, delivers life.
Questions for Reflection
- What apparently attractive invitations might be leading toward 'death' (spiritual, relational, physical)?
- How can you develop discernment that sees ultimate consequences beyond immediate appeals?
- What would wisdom require you to reject despite its current attractiveness?
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Analysis & Commentary
The simple don't know that the dead are there, her guests in death's depths. The Hebrew 'rapha' (dead/departed spirits) and 'sheowl' (grave/death/underworld) describe folly's destination. What appears attractive leads to death. The simple, lacking discernment, don't recognize danger. They see attractive invitation, miss deadly outcome. Wisdom looks beyond immediate appeal to ultimate consequence. Folly sees only present pleasure, ignoring future destruction.