Proverbs 6:33-35 (ESV)
33 He will get wounds and dishonor,
and his disgrace will not be wiped away.
34 For jealousy makes a man furious,
and he will not spare when he takes revenge.
35 He will accept no compensation;
he will refuse though you multiply gifts.
Adultery brings wounds and dishonor. The Hebrew word translated as wounds is nega. It refers to a strike, blow, affliction, plague, or disease. The word can describe a powerful stroke from a fist or a weapon. Sin leaves marks. The Hebrew word translated as dishonor is qalon, meaning shame. It often refers to public disgrace that results from sinful behavior. Many imagine adultery to be private and convince themselves that no one will know. Yet it rarely remains hidden. The Lord sees every act, and consequences surface in time. Sin that was once concealed eventually exposes the sinner.
The proverb adds that his disgrace will not be wiped away. The Hebrew word translated as disgrace is herpah. It describes humiliation or reproach brought upon a person. Once trust is broken, the damage spreads widely. Many are affected. Parents, in laws, children, friends, and neighbors all feel the weight of what has occurred. The one who commits adultery carries the shame of compromised integrity before himself, his community, and the Lord.
The text then explains another consequence. Jealousy makes a husband furious. The sacred marriage covenant has been violated. A man and woman once stood before God and pledged themselves to one another for life. Adultery shatters that promise. When betrayal is discovered, anger is expected. Hearts are crushed, and some never fully recover from the betrayal and pain.
No payment can repair such harm. The proverb says that the offended husband will accept no compensation and refuse even multiplied gifts. No money, offering, or bribe can undo the ruin of a broken marriage covenant. Wealth cannot erase betrayal or restore what has been lost. The risks of adultery are never worth the cost. As Song of Solomon 8:6 reminds us, love is strong and precious. To violate it is devastating.
God hates adultery, yet we live in a culture that often tolerates or even applauds sexual unfaithfulness. No matter how the world may trivialize it, Scripture speaks plainly. Do not laugh at adultery when it is portrayed in movies or entertainment. Do not grow comfortable with it or excuse it when others minimize its seriousness. Call it what God calls it. Adultery is sin, and God’s people must refuse to make peace with it.