Proverbs 5:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 5:17
17 Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 5 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, worship, love. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 5:17
17 Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
Analysis
Let sexual intimacy be yours alone, not shared with strangers. The Hebrew 'zur' (stranger/outsider) indicates those outside covenant marriage relationship. This verse answers v.16's rhetorical question: no, don't disperse your fountains; keep them exclusive. Sexual intimacy belongs within marriage exclusively. Sharing what should be private violates intimacy's nature and degrades what should be sacred.
Historical Context
Marriage covenant created exclusive sexual rights - adultery violated not just morality but contractual obligations. The seventh commandment ('Thou shalt not commit adultery') protected marriage's exclusivity. Jesus intensified this, condemning even lustful thoughts as heart-adultery (Matthew 5:27-28). Paul taught that bodies belong to spouses, not to self or others (1 Corinthians 7:3-5).
Reflection
- How does understanding sexual intimacy as exclusive covenant right affect your view of marriage?
- What 'strangers' (pornography, fantasy, emotional affairs) intrude on marital exclusivity?
- How can single people honor sexual exclusivity while waiting for marriage?