Next we will consider a proverb that comes from the words of Agur, a man distinguished for his wisdom, humility, and deep observation of human behavior. Although Agur is not as well-known as Solomon, his words contain profound insight inspired by God. In this proverb, Agur presents a striking image that can be applied to any adulterous person, even though the text uses a woman as the illustrative example. This is not to single out one gender, but to expose the nature of adultery itself.
Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.
Proverbs 30:20
This verse addresses the sin of adultery in a very graphic and sobering way. The expression “she eateth, and wipeth her mouth” describes an act that has been completed, followed by a deliberate attempt to erase all evidence and guilt. In other words, the adulterous person commits the sin of adultery, covers it up, and then continues life as if nothing morally wrong has taken place.
The most disturbing element of the verse is the final statement: “I have done no wickedness.” This reflects a hardened conscience. It describes a person who has silenced conviction, justified sin, and redefined evil as acceptable. There is no repentance, no shame, no fear of God—only self-deception.
This behavior deeply astonishes Agur, and to understand why, we must look at the surrounding context. In the preceding verses, Agur lists things that are mysterious and difficult for him to comprehend:
18 There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:
19 The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.
Proverbs 30:18-19
Agur compares natural phenomena—the flight of an eagle, the movement of a serpent, the path of a ship at sea—to human relationships. The eagle leaves no visible trail in the sky, the serpent leaves no mark on the rock, and the ship leaves no lasting path on the water. These actions are natural, instinctive, and morally neutral.
However, the comparison becomes striking when Agur turns to the way of an adulterous person. Unlike the eagle, serpent, or ship, an unfaithful person commits an act that is morally offensive to God. Yet, just like those natural movements leave no visible trace, adultery is often committed in secrecy, without immediate outward consequences.
This is the danger Agur highlights: adultery can be committed discreetly, hidden from human eyes, and seemingly erased from memory—but it is never hidden from God. The adulterer may believe that wiping the mouth removes guilt, but heaven has recorded the act.
Adultery is not a harmless or private sin. Scripture consistently condemns it because of its destructive power. It breaks covenant trust, wounds spouses, traumatizes children, and corrupts the soul of the one who commits it. What begins as secret pleasure often ends in public ruin.
The adulterous person of Proverbs 30:20 represents anyone—man or woman—who treats sin lightly, excuses immoral behavior, and refuses accountability. This mindset is especially dangerous because it leads to spiritual blindness. When sin no longer produces remorse, judgment is near.
God’s Word repeatedly warns against adultery. It is a sin against one’s own body, against one’s spouse, and ultimately against God. Though society may normalize or excuse it, Scripture does not. God calls His people to holiness, faithfulness, and self-control.
Therefore, do not imitate the adulterous woman of Proverbs 30:20. Do not silence your conscience or justify sin. If you are being tempted, flee. If you have fallen, repent sincerely and seek God’s mercy. He is willing to forgive the repentant heart, but He will judge unrepentant sin.
Adultery destroys families, damages testimony, and separates the soul from God. Ask the Lord for strength, wisdom, and purity. Guard your heart, honor your covenant, and walk in the fear of the Lord, for His ways lead to life.