Proverbs 5:15 – “Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Solomon uses a metaphor to encourage faithfulness in marriage. The imagery of drinking water from “your own cistern” and “your own well” symbolizes enjoying the blessings of a committed, exclusive relationship with one’s spouse. Just as a person draws water from their own source to quench their thirst, so should a married person find fulfillment and joy in their own marriage rather than looking elsewhere.
The phrase suggests satisfaction and contentment with what one already has, rather than seeking pleasure or intimacy outside of the covenant relationship. Solomon’s point is that just as water is essential for physical life, fidelity and commitment are essential for the health of a marriage. By emphasizing the metaphor of a well, he underscores the idea that marital love should be a refreshing and fulfilling source of joy, just like fresh water is to someone who is thirsty.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, wells and cisterns were crucial sources of water in a dry land. Water was a precious resource that required effort to obtain, and it was closely guarded. The metaphor of a well would have resonated with Solomon’s audience, who understood the value of keeping one’s water source protected.
During Solomon’s time, marriage was considered sacred, and the idea of fidelity was strongly tied to one’s honor and relationship with God. The Israelites were surrounded by cultures where sexual immorality was common, often tied to pagan worship. Solomon’s warning to remain faithful was not only a call to personal morality but also a safeguard against adopting the sinful practices of neighboring nations.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse emphasizes the importance of fidelity and contentment within the boundaries that God has set for marriage. God designed marriage to be a source of blessing, joy, and fulfillment. By using the metaphor of water—a symbol of life and sustenance—Solomon is pointing to the richness that comes from a committed relationship that honors God.
The verse also highlights the idea that God’s plan for marriage is for it to be exclusive and cherished. Stepping outside of that boundary leads to brokenness, pain, and spiritual consequences. By encouraging faithfulness, God is not trying to restrict us but to protect us from the heartache that comes from unfaithfulness.
Literary Analysis
Proverbs 5:15 uses metaphorical language to convey its message in a memorable and impactful way. The imagery of water is used to illustrate a deeper truth about relationships. Water is necessary for survival, just as healthy, faithful marriages are essential for a stable family and community.
The choice of words like “cistern” and “well” reflects something that is personally owned and maintained. This implies responsibility and effort, suggesting that maintaining a healthy marriage requires intentionality. The simplicity of the metaphor makes it easy to understand, while the deeper meaning challenges the reader to reflect on their own commitment.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 18:22: “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
- Song of Solomon 4:12: “You are a garden locked up, my sister, my bride; you are a spring enclosed, a sealed fountain.”
- Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
- 1 Corinthians 7:3-4: “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Proverbs 5:15 is a call to cherish the covenant of marriage. In a world that often promotes self-indulgence and quick gratification, this verse reminds believers to find fulfillment in the relationships God has blessed them with. It’s a challenge to reject the temptations of looking elsewhere for satisfaction and to invest in deepening the bond with one’s spouse.
This verse also speaks to the importance of contentment. In a society where it’s easy to be dissatisfied and always seek something better, Solomon’s words encourage believers to appreciate and nurture what they already have. By pouring effort into one’s marriage, a couple can experience the joy and refreshment that God intended.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instructions about marriage are rooted in His love for us. He designed marriage to be a source of joy, intimacy, and partnership. By urging faithfulness, God is not trying to limit our freedom but to guide us toward a fulfilling and meaningful relationship. Just as a well provides water for life, a faithful marriage is meant to be a source of life-giving joy.
God desires that we experience the blessings of commitment and love. His guidance in this verse reflects His deep concern for our well-being, protecting us from the pain that comes with broken trust and unfaithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus spoke often about the importance of faithfulness, both in relationships and in our commitment to God. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus reaffirmed God’s design for marriage, saying that a man and woman are to become one flesh, united in a lifelong bond. He emphasized that what God has joined together, no one should separate.
Jesus also demonstrated what true faithfulness looks like through His relationship with the church. He is described as the Bridegroom who loves His bride, the church, with an unwavering commitment (Ephesians 5:25-27). This deep, sacrificial love is the model for how husbands and wives are to love and remain faithful to each other.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways can you nurture your relationship with your spouse to make it more fulfilling?
- How can you guard your heart against temptations that may lead you away from faithfulness?
- What does it mean to “drink water from your own cistern” in a practical sense within your marriage?
- How can the example of Christ’s faithfulness to the church inspire you to remain committed in your relationships?
- How does understanding God’s design for marriage help you appreciate and invest more in your own marriage?
Reflecting on these questions can help you deepen your understanding of God’s wisdom for marriage, encouraging you to nurture the relationships that He has blessed you with, leading to a life of fulfillment and joy.