Proverbs 5:17 - Understanding and Interpretation

Proverbs 5:17 states: "Let them be only thy own, and not strangers' with thee." This verse emphasizes the importance of fidelity within marriage and warns against seeking intimacy or relationships outside of the sanctity of the marital bond.

Summary of Insights

The insights drawn from public domain commentaries highlight several key themes:

• Importance of Faithfulness: Matthew Henry notes that this verse underscores the exclusivity required in a marital relationship. It encourages believers to find satisfaction in their own spouse rather than seeking affection elsewhere.
• Consequences of Infidelity: Albert Barnes emphasizes the adverse effects of infidelity on family and spiritual well-being, affirming that relationships with 'strangers' can lead to moral corruption and division.
• Holiness of Marriage: Adam Clarke adds that the sacredness of the marital relationship is a divine principle, calling for respect and commitment to one's spouse.

Related Bible Cross-References

To further deepen your understanding and explore the thematic connections, here are several relevant cross-references:

• Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge."
• Malachi 2:14: "Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously."
• 1 Corinthians 6:18: "Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body."
• Matthew 5:28: "But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."
• Ephesians 5:31: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh."
• Proverbs 2:17: "Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God."
• Proverbs 6:32: "But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul."

Tools for Understanding Proverbs 5:17

For those looking to dive deeper into cross-referencing Bible texts, various tools and strategies can enhance your study:

• Bible Concordance: A helpful resource to find key terms and their occurrences throughout the Scriptures.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: This guide provides insights into how different verses relate and complement one another.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: An approach that leverages related verses to build a holistic understanding of a given passage or theme.
• Identifying Connections: Look for thematic links between verses from both the Old and New Testaments for richer theological insights.

Thematic Connection and Explanation

The theme of marital fidelity expressed in Proverbs 5:17 resonates deeply throughout Scripture, often linked with the understanding that true fulfillment comes from a committed relationship. By cross-referencing other relevant passages, one can see a coherent narrative that reinforces the importance of loyalty and the sanctity of marriage.

Conclusion

Proverbs 5:17 serves as a reminder of the value of faithfulness in marriage. By examining various commentaries and utilizing cross-referencing tools, one can glean deeper insights and appreciate the richness of Biblical teachings on this subject.