Proverbs 7:9–23

9 It was at twilight, in the evening,

as deep darkness fell.

10 The woman approached him,

seductively dressed and sly of heart.

11 She was the brash, rebellious type,

never content to stay at home.

12 She is often in the streets and markets,

soliciting at every corner.

13 She threw her arms around him and kissed him,

and with a brazen look she said,

14 “I’ve just made my peace offerings

and fulfilled my vows.

15 You’re the one I was looking for!

I came out to find you, and here you are!

16 My bed is spread with beautiful blankets,

with colored sheets of Egyptian linen.

17 I’ve perfumed my bed

with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

18 Come, let’s drink our fill of love until morning.

Let’s enjoy each other’s caresses,

19 for my husband is not home.

He’s away on a long trip.

20 He has taken a wallet full of money with him

and won’t return until later this month.* ”

21 So she seduced him with her pretty speech

and enticed him with her flattery.

22 He followed her at once,

like an ox going to the slaughter.

He was like a stag caught in a trap,*

23 awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart.

He was like a bird flying into a snare,

little knowing it would cost him his life.