King James Version
Proverbs 6:28 in the King James Version says “Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?”
Proverbs 6:28 · KJV
For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life. the adulteress: Heb. the woman of a man, or, a man's wife
Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?
So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;
KJV Study — Public Domain
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
“Can one”
H376a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“and his feet”
H7272a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“not be burned”
H3554properly, to prick or penetrate; hence, to blister (as smarting or eating into)
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Proverbs 6:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.