What are the meanings of “stolen,” “sweet,” and “secret” in Proverbs 9:17? How can they be pleasurable?
13 A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing. 14 For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city, 15 To call passengers who go right on their ways: 16 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, 17 Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. 18 But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell
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Asked April 09 2019
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Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
Supporter
As indicated in the passage cited in the question, the "pleasures" spoken of are considered "sweet" by those who are "simple" or "foolish" (that is, without true wisdom or understanding) because they are seemingly being obtained with no effort, or at no apparent cost, or (because of their covert or secret nature) with no immediate adverse consequences. (That is, they appeal to the desire to "get something for nothing".) However, this disregards the sinful nature of the actions that are being described, and the adverse consequences (eternal, if not also temporal) that will result from such immoral behavior.
Shirley H
Supporter
Life involves choice. Wisdom and folly are contrasted in the proverbs. Wisdom holds a banquet for life, folly leads to death. Choices have consequences. Foolishly choosing, though fun at the moment, can and usually will lead to a dire outcome. Growing in wisdom, the truth of God, is preferable. Naivete is lost, and eternity is gained. Hebrews 5:13,14 "For everyone who partake only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." My Mom used to say, you can't put an old head on young shoulders!
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