'Do Not Rake Fire Into Your Bosom'

To emphasize the danger of adultery further, Solomon asks: "Can a man rake together fire into his bosom and yet his very garments not be burned? Or can a man walk upon the coals and his feet themselves not be scorched?"  Explaining the meaning of the illustration, he says:  "Likewise with anyone having relations with the wife of his fellowman, no one touching her will remain unpunishable." (Proverbs 6:27-29) Such a sinner will  surely be punished. 

"People do not despise a thief just because he commits thievery to fill his soul when he is hungry," we are reminded.  Even so, "when found, he will make it good with seven times as much; all the valuables of his house he will give."  (Proverbs 6:30, 31) In ancient Israel, a thief was required to make payment even if it took all he had. How much more worth of punishment would be an adulterer, who has no excuse for what he has done! 

"Anyone committing adultery with a woman is in want of heart," states Solomon.  A man in want of heart lacks good judgment, since he is bringing his  own soul to ruin." (Proverbs 6:32)  Outwardly, he may appear to be  a reputable person, but the inner  man is seriously lacking in proper development. 

There is more to the fruitage that an adulterer reaps.  "A plague and dishonor he will find, and his reproach  itself will not be wiped out.  For the rage of an able-bodied  man is jealousy, and he will not show compassion in the day of vengeance. He will have no consideration for any sort of ransom, neither will he show willingness, no matter how large you make the present." -Proverbs 6:33-35. 

A thief can compensate for what he stole, but an adulterer can make no repayment. what  compensation could he offer an angry husband? No amount of pleading  is likely to win the wrongdoer compassion. In no way can the adulterer make restitution for his sin.  The reproach and dishonor heaped upon his own name remains. Moreover, he can in no way ransom himself or buy freedom  from the punishment he deserves.

How wise it is to stay clear of adultery as well as other conduct and attitudes that defame our good name and may bring reproach upon God!  May we, then, be careful not to make foolish pledges. Let industriousness  and truthfulness adorn our reputation. And as we endeavor  to hate what Jehovah hates, may we make a good name with him and our fellowman. 

Next time: MANKIND'S QUEST TO PLEASE GOD

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000