Proverbs 5:9

Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:

Proverbs 5:9 (KJV)

Context

This warning appears in a father’s instruction about the dangers of sexual immorality. The father urges his son to stay far from the seductive woman, whose path leads to ruin. The verse names two heavy losses: honor and years.

Meaning

“Honour” means reputation, integrity, and dignity. “Years” stands for life, time, and strength. The word “give” shows that the loss is not accidental; a person willingly surrenders what is precious. The “cruel” one is the immoral woman or the merciless consequences of sin, which exploit and destroy without pity. This language of giving highlights personal responsibility in such choices.

Biblical connections

Proverbs 5 contrasts the fleeting pleasure of sin with the lasting benefits of marital faithfulness. The same chapter later urges rejoicing with the wife of one’s youth (Proverbs 5:18). This connection shows that the warning is not merely negative; it protects a joyful, faithful relationship. The broader passage emphasizes the severe consequences of straying from wisdom.

Application

This proverb calls for honest self-examination. Where are we investing our time and energy? Are we offering our best years to relationships and pursuits that honor God, or are we slowly giving our strength to things that will prove empty? Sin demands everything but gives nothing lasting in return. Guarding our honor and years requires deliberate, daily choices that align with God’s wisdom.

Reflection

True wisdom heeds this warning and trusts that God’s commands guard our dignity and our future. Every choice either builds a legacy of honor or feeds a cruel master. Choose the path that preserves what God has given.