Proverbs 5:22

His owne iniquities shall take the wicked himselfe, and he shall be holden with the coards of his sinnes. Proverbs 5:22 (KJV)

This verse belongs to a larger passage in Proverbs that offers wisdom and guidance for avoiding the seductive allure of an adulterous woman. The chapter as a whole warns against the dangers of succumbing to sexual immorality and stresses the importance of faithfulness within marriage. While much of the surrounding text focuses on the specific consequences of adultery, verse 5:22 broadens the warning to the consequences of wickedness in general, presenting a vivid image of how one’s own sinful actions can entrap and ensnare the individual.

Key points for study emerge clearly. First, personal responsibility is highlighted; the verse emphasizes accountability for one’s actions. Second, the imagery of being “holden with the cords of his sins” depicts self‑destruction, a person bound by the very consequences of his wickedness. Third, the cumulative effect of sin is implied—the wicked person’s sins will eventually catch up with him. Fourth, although the verse does not name God explicitly, it suggests a divine order or justice that governs the outcome of sinful behavior.

When examining this passage, it is essential to keep the broader context of Proverbs in view. The book generally presents wisdom in a general sense, offering moral teachings as a guide for righteous living rather than as absolute guarantees or promises. Its purpose is to illuminate the path of wisdom and to warn against choices that lead to ruin.

Ultimately, Proverbs 5:22 calls the reader to recognize the destructive power of personal sin and to pursue righteousness diligently. By understanding the image of cords that bind the wicked, believers are urged to avoid wickedness, embrace faithful conduct, and trust in the wisdom that God’s moral order provides.