Proverbs 6:32 Meaning and Explanation
“But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The adulterer destroys his own soul through an act of profound foolishness.
The Context of Proverbs 6:32
The contrast concludes: adultery is worse than theft because it destroys the adulterer's own soul, not just property.
What Does Proverbs 6:32 Mean?
The adulterer lacks understanding—he is a fool. He may be clever in other ways, but in committing adultery, he reveals a fundamental lack of wisdom. He does not understand the consequences, the nature of the covenant he violates, or the destruction he brings upon himself.
More significantly, he destroyeth his own soul. Unlike the thief who loses his possessions, the adulterer loses his very self. His soul—his life, his moral integrity, his standing before God—is destroyed by his own action. This is not merely material loss but existential ruin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 6:32
What does Proverbs 6:32 mean?
The adulterer destroys his own soul through an act of profound foolishness.
What is the context of Proverbs 6:32?
The contrast concludes: adultery is worse than theft because it destroys the adulterer's own soul, not just property.