As an Ox Goes to the Slaughter

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21 With her enticing speech she caused him to yield, with her flattering lips she seduced him.

22 Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks,

23 Till an arrow struck his liver. As a bird hastens to the snare,

He did not know it would cost his life (Proverbs 7:21-23, New King James Version).

In Proverbs 7, Solomon observes a naive young man from his window as he falls into the trap set by a wicked woman. The young man has ventured into her territory, the very place where she waits for her victims each evening. Solomon’s warning to young men is unmistakable: Stay away from her corner. Avoid her, because much stronger men than you have fallen victim to her schemes, leading to destruction and death. Do not think you will escape unharmed. Listen, young people of today (male and female), and learn this critical lesson: fornication is not something to take lightly. 

A young person might go to a crowded beach, date someone with a questionable reputation, or flirt with the excitement without intending to fall into an obvious trap. The wise man urges you to run in the opposite direction—don’t linger to be tempted, and don’t put yourself in such a dangerous position!!

24 Now therefore, listen to me, my children; Pay attention to the words of my mouth:

25 Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways, do not stray into her paths;

26 For she has cast down many wounded, and all who were slain by her were strong men.

27 Her house is the way to hell, descending to the chambers of death (vv. 24-27). 

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