Translations
Modern
Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil,
Traditional
For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:
Literal
For the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey, and smoother than oil is her palate;
Latin
…favus enim distillans labia meretricis, et nitidius oleo guttur ejus:
Interlinear
Hebrew
English
Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil,
Notes
The lips of an immoral woman may seem sweet and tempting, but they are actually bitter and dangerous. Sexual activity often starts with a kiss, and flattering words can lure someone in.
These instructions on loving one's wife and avoiding immoral women were originally for young men starting their careers (see also Proverbs 2:16–22; 7:1–27). This topic is also common in ancient Egyptian wisdom writings.
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
Glossary
Topics
Adultery: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Harlot (Prostitute): To be Shunned Honey: Lips of a Strange Woman Lasciviousness: General Scriptures Concerning Oil: Smooth Women: Wicked: Full of Deceit and Licentiousness Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning