Proverbs 5:17 – “Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Solomon is continuing his teaching on the value of faithfulness in marriage. He uses the metaphor of water to describe the intimate bond between a husband and wife. The phrase “let them be yours alone” emphasizes that marital intimacy is meant to be exclusive. It is a gift designed to be enjoyed solely between spouses, not something to be shared outside of that sacred relationship.
The idea is that intimacy within marriage should be cherished, protected, and kept private. The command “never to be shared with strangers” warns against infidelity or letting the special bond meant for marriage be diluted by including others. Solomon is encouraging couples to honor the exclusivity of their relationship, recognizing that intimacy is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the concept of faithfulness was taken very seriously. Marriages were not just personal unions but were seen as foundational to the health of the family and community. Infidelity could have severe social and even legal consequences. Solomon’s advice to keep intimacy within the marriage reflects the cultural and religious values of his time, where maintaining family honor was essential.
The Israelites lived in a society surrounded by pagan cultures that often engaged in promiscuous practices as part of their religious rituals. Solomon’s teachings in Proverbs were partly intended to protect the people of Israel from adopting the immoral behaviors of the nations around them. By encouraging marital faithfulness, Solomon was calling his readers to live according to God’s standards rather than following the ways of the world.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the sanctity of marriage as designed by God. The exclusivity of intimacy within marriage reflects God’s plan for relationships to be both sacred and life-giving. The command to keep these intimate moments “yours alone” underscores that marriage is a unique covenant where two people become one, united not just physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.
God’s design for marriage is rooted in the idea that intimacy is meant to be a profound expression of love, trust, and commitment. When intimacy is shared outside of marriage, it loses its intended beauty and becomes something that can lead to brokenness and pain. By keeping this gift within the confines of marriage, couples honor God and protect the bond that He intended for their relationship.
Literary Analysis
Proverbs 5:17 uses direct language to emphasize the importance of keeping marital intimacy private. The contrast between “yours alone” and “shared with strangers” highlights the difference between a healthy, exclusive relationship and one that is compromised. The straightforward nature of this verse reflects its urgency, encouraging readers to take Solomon’s advice to heart.
The structure of the verse is simple yet profound, using plain language to convey a deeper truth. The emphasis on exclusivity is not just about protecting the marriage relationship, but also about preserving the integrity of the individuals involved. This verse is part of a larger passage in Proverbs that deals with the importance of faithfulness, making it a key piece of Solomon’s wisdom on relationships.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 2:24: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
- Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.”
- 1 Corinthians 7:3-4: “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”
- Matthew 19:6: “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Proverbs 5:17 serves as a reminder to honor the boundaries God has set for marriage. In a culture where casual relationships and infidelity are often normalized, this verse challenges believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage. It is a call to protect the gift of intimacy, keeping it within the marriage relationship where it belongs.
This verse also encourages couples to focus on nurturing their own relationship rather than being distracted by what the world offers. By investing in their marriage, couples can experience the fullness of the joy and intimacy that God intended. It’s a call to cherish and protect what is precious, ensuring that marital love remains a source of strength and joy.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s command to keep intimacy within marriage is an expression of His love for us. He knows that stepping outside of His design leads to pain, broken trust, and damaged relationships. By encouraging exclusivity, God is not trying to limit our joy but to protect it. He wants us to experience the richness and depth of a faithful, committed relationship that mirrors His love for us.
God’s love is steadfast and faithful, and He desires that our relationships reflect that same commitment. By keeping intimacy within the boundaries of marriage, we align ourselves with God’s heart and experience the blessings that come from living according to His wisdom.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus affirmed the sanctity of marriage during His ministry, teaching that marriage is a lifelong commitment between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-6). His life and teachings emphasize the importance of faithfulness, both in our relationships with others and in our relationship with God.
Through Jesus, we see the perfect example of love that is both sacrificial and committed. His love for the church is described as the love of a bridegroom for his bride (Ephesians 5:25-27). By following Jesus’ example, we learn to honor our commitments and protect the relationships that God has blessed us with.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you protect the intimacy of your marriage in a culture that often disregards the value of faithfulness?
- In what ways can you invest in your marriage to ensure that it remains a source of joy and fulfillment?
- How can you guard your heart against the temptation to look for satisfaction outside of God’s design for marriage?
- How does understanding God’s love and faithfulness inspire you to remain committed in your relationships?
- What steps can you take to honor God’s plan for marriage, whether you are currently married or hope to be one day?
Reflecting on these questions can help you align your life with God’s wisdom, ensuring that you cherish the gift of marriage and protect the sacred bond that God has intended.