Proverbs 6:35

He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.

Proverbs 6:35 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is Old Testament wisdom literature, attributed mainly to King Solomon. It gives practical guidance for daily life, including relationships, work, and moral conduct. This verse closes a longer passage, Proverbs 6:20-35, which warns against adultery and its painful results. The words describe the reaction of a husband who has been betrayed by his wife. His anger is deep, and he refuses to be comforted by any payment.

Meaning

The phrase “He will not regard any ransom” means the wronged husband will not accept any payment or bribe to overlook the offense. In the Hebrew text, the idea is that he will not even look at a ransom, because his honor has been deeply wounded. The second phrase, “neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts,” shows that no amount of presents can calm his anger or bring him peace. Unlike a thief who can repay what he stole and settle the matter, the adulterer cannot repair the damage with money or goods. The emotional wound is too deep for any material offer to heal.

Biblical connections

This verse stands in contrast to the law about theft, where restitution could satisfy the offense. In adultery, no such repayment exists. The passage also connects to God’s design for marriage as a sacred covenant between husband and wife. Adultery breaks that covenant and brings lasting harm. While the Bible teaches forgiveness and restoration through genuine repentance, this verse stresses that the pain of betrayal is not easily removed. It reminds readers that some sins carry consequences that gifts cannot undo.

Application

This verse warns everyone to guard their hearts and remain faithful in marriage. It shows that trust, once broken, is very hard to rebuild. Trying to fix a broken relationship with gifts or money will not work. True healing requires sincere remorse, honest confession, and a long process of rebuilding trust. It also calls us to consider the weight of our actions before we sin, because the harm we cause may be beyond repair. For those who have been betrayed, this verse gives voice to their pain and reminds them that their hurt is real and serious.

Reflection

God values faithfulness and truth in all our relationships. This verse challenges us to examine our own commitments and to treat marriage as a holy promise. It also points to the need for humility and self-control, so that we do not bring such sorrow upon others. When we fail, we must not try to hide behind gifts or excuses. Instead, we should seek true repentance and rely on God’s grace to heal what is broken. The deep anger described here is a sober reminder of how precious trust is and how careful we must be to protect it.