Proverbs 17:17-18:5 (Vespers, 2nd Reading)

17

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

18

Come, let us take our fill of love until morning; Let us delight ourselves with love.

19

For my husband is not at home; He has gone on a long journey;

20

He has taken a bag of money with him, And will come home on the appointed day.”

21

With her enticing speech she caused him to yield,

22

Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, Or as a fool to the correction of the stocks,

23

Till an arrow struck his liver. As a bird hastens to the snare, He did not know it would cost his life.

24

Now therefore, listen to me, my children; Pay attention to the words of my mouth:

25

Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways, Do not stray into her paths;

26

For she has cast down many wounded, And all who were slain by her were strong men.

27

Her house is the way to hell, Descending to the chambers of death.

1

Does not wisdom cry out, And understanding lift up her voice?

2

She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, Beside the way, where the paths meet.

3

She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, At the entrance of the doors:

4

“To you, O men, I call, And my voice is to the sons of men.

5

O you simple ones, understand prudence, And you fools, be of an understanding heart.