Proverbs 5:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 5:18
18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 5 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, righteousness, wisdom. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 5:18
18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Analysis
This verse commands marital joy and fidelity within God's design. 'Let thy fountain be blessed' (יְהִי־מְקוֹרְךָ בָרוּךְ/yehi-meqorcha baruch) uses 'fountain' as metaphor for one's wife and sexual relationship. 'Rejoice with the wife of thy youth' (וּשְׂמַח מֵאֵשֶׁת נְעוּרֶךָ/usemach me'eshet ne'urecha) commands active delight in marital intimacy. The verb 'samach' (rejoice) is strong—gladness, celebration, joy. Chapter 5 contrasts the destructive path of adultery (vv.1-14) with the satisfying beauty of marital faithfulness (vv.15-23). This verse affirms God's good design for sexuality within marriage, refuting both asceticism (which denigrates marital intimacy) and licentiousness (which pursues it outside marriage's covenant). The wife of one's youth deserves lifelong commitment and joy, not abandonment for younger partners. This reflects covenant faithfulness and God's design for human flourishing.
Historical Context
In ancient Israelite culture, the marriage relationship was celebrated as a divine gift, contrasting with surrounding cultures' views.
Reflection
- How does viewing your spouse as God's provision for rejoicing (not merely duty) transform your marriage?
- In what ways does cultural messaging about sexuality conflict with God's design for joyful marital faithfulness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ecclesiastes 9:9