King James Version

What Does Proverbs 7:16 Mean?

Proverbs 7:16 in the King James Version says “I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.”

Proverbs 7:16 · KJV

Context

14

I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows. I have: Heb. Peace offerings are upon me

15

Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.

16

I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.

17

I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

18

Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.

Read Proverbs 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
I've decked my bed with coverings, colored linens from Egypt. The Hebrew 'ramad' (spread/deck) and 'chatul' (striped/colored) describe luxurious preparation. Egyptian linens were premium import goods. This verse emphasizes sensory seduction - visual beauty, textile luxury, exotic imports. Seduction appeals to senses and aesthetics. What looks beautiful can be morally deadly.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Egypt represented wealth and luxury to Israel. Egyptian fine linen was renowned ancient world over. By emphasizing Egyptian linens, the seductress signals wealth and sophistication. Luxury and aesthetics aren't inherently evil, but they can facilitate seduction when divorced from moral discernment. Beauty seduces when separated from truth and goodness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do aesthetic beauty and sensory pleasure sometimes override moral judgment?
  2. What luxuries or sophistication tempt you to compromise wisdom for experience?
  3. How can you appreciate beauty without being seduced by it into moral compromise?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
מַ֭רְבַדִּים1 of 6

“with coverings”

H4765

a coverlet

רָבַ֣דְתִּי2 of 6

“I have decked”

H7234

to spread

עַרְשִׂ֑י3 of 6

“my bed”

H6210

a couch (properly, with a canopy)

חֲ֝טֻב֗וֹת4 of 6

“of tapestry with carved”

H2405

properly, a carving; hence, a tapestry (as figured)

אֵט֥וּן5 of 6

“works with fine linen”

H330

properly, twisted (yarn), i.e., tapestry

מִצְרָֽיִם׃6 of 6

“of Egypt”

H4714

mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 7:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 7:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 19:9Ezekiel 27:7Proverbs 31:221 Kings 10:28Revelation 2:22Song of Solomon 3:7-10

Places in This Verse

EgyptRegion · Modern: Ain Shams · 30.13°N, 31.31°E658 verses across 33 books
View all places in Proverbs 7 →

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 7 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Proverbs 7 with CommentaryAll Proverbs ChaptersComplete Proverbs QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes