Proverbs 22:14

The mouth of strange women is a deepe pit: he that is abhorred of the Lord shall fall therein. Proverbs 22:14 (KJV)

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings attributed primarily to King Solomon, offering practical guidance for relationships, work, morality, and the fear of the Lord. In this verse the phrase “strange women” denotes immoral or adulterous women, and it can also be understood more broadly to include anyone who entices others into sinful or destructive behaviour. The mouth symbolizes speech; it represents the words, enticements, or deceitful promises used by such individuals.

The metaphor of a “deep pit” emphasizes the dangerous and destructive nature of those seductive words. Like a pit, they can trap and ensnare a person, leading to harm, ruin, or moral downfall. The verse warns that a person who is either abhorred by the LORD—someone who deliberately rejects God’s commands—or a fool who lacks wisdom will fall into that pit. Both conditions highlight the peril of embracing deceitful counsel without discernment.

The warning is clear: those who give in to the alluring but harmful speech of a strange woman will experience spiritual downfall. This serves as a stark reminder to guard our hearts against ungodly influence. Believers are called to exercise discernment in choosing companions and to be cautious of the words they listen to, for deceptive promises can draw them away from the path of righteousness.

In application, the verse urges vigilance, wisdom, and alignment of our words and actions with God’s commands. By staying alert to seductive but sinful influences, we protect ourselves from falling into the deep pit of spiritual harm and remain faithful to the Lord’s guidance.