Proverbs 9:17

“Stolen waters are sweet, etc.] Wells and fountains of waters in those hot countries were very valuable, and were the property of particular persons; about which there were sometimes great strife and contention; and they were sometimes sealed and kept from the use of others; (see <012618> Genesis 26:18-22 <220412>Song of Solomon 4:12); now waters got by stealth from such wells and fountains were sweeter than their own, or what might be had in common and without difficulty, to which the proverb alludes. By which in general is meant, that all prohibited unlawful lusts and pleasures are desirable to men, and sweet in the enjoyment of them; and the pleasure promised by them is what makes them so…”

“The language of a proverb, meaning that forbidden delights are sweet and pleasant, as fruits of risk and danger.”

“The besetting sin of all times and countries, the one great proof of the inherent corruption of man’s nature. Pleasures are attractive because they are forbidden (compare Romans 7:7). return to 'Top of Page'”

“Sweet - From the difficulty of obtaining them; and because the very prohibition renders them more grateful to corrupt nature. Next: Proverbs Chapter 10”

“9:17 Like Wisdom, Folly has prepared a banquet for her guests (cp. 9:2-5). However, this meal is dishonest and perverse.”

“Stolen: Pro 20:17, Pro 23:31, Pro 23:32; Gen 3:6; Rom 7:8; Jam 1:14, Jam 1:15 eaten in secret: Heb. of secrecies, Pro 7:18-20, Pro 30:20; Kg2 5:24-27; Eph 5:12 Proverbs 9:18”