Proverbs 5:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 5:19
19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 5 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, faith, judgment. 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 5:19
19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
Analysis
The wife should be as a loving deer and pleasant doe; be ravished always with her love. The Hebrew 'ahabiym' (loves/beloved) and 'cheshek' (desire/delight) describe affectionate attraction. 'Ravished' ('shagah') means intoxicated or captivated. Marital sexuality should be mutually satisfying and enduringly delightful. The deer/doe imagery suggests grace, beauty, gentleness. This verse celebrates married sexual joy as God's design.
Historical Context
Song of Solomon extensively develops this theme - marital sexuality as good gift to be enjoyed, not merely tolerated for procreation. Unlike Greek dualism that despised the physical or Gnostic asceticism that denied bodily pleasure, biblical faith affirms sexuality within marriage as divine gift. Hebrews 13:4 declares: 'Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled.'
Reflection
- How does this verse challenge both prudish and promiscuous views of sexuality?
- What does it mean to be 'ravished always' with your spouse - how is enduring delight cultivated?
- How can you ensure your marriage reflects God's design for mutual sexual satisfaction?
Word Studies
- Love: אַהֲבָה / חֶסֶד (Ahavah / Chesed) H160 - Love / Loyal-love
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 2:9, 2:17, 4:5, 7:3, 8:14
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 5:15