9at twilight, as the day was fading,

as the dark of night set in.

10Then out came a woman to meet him,

dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent.

11(She is loud and defiant,

her feet never stay at home;

12now in the street, now in the squares,

at every corner she lurks.)

13She took hold of him and kissed him

and with a brazen face she said:

14“I have fellowship offerings^a at home;

today I fulfilled my vows.

15So I came out to meet you;

I looked for you and have found you!

16I have covered my bed

with colored linens from Egypt.

17I have perfumed my bed

with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.

18Come, let’s drink deep of love till morning;

let’s enjoy ourselves with love!

19My husband is not at home;

he has gone on a long journey.

20He took his purse filled with money

and will not be home till full moon.”

21With persuasive words she led him astray;

she seduced him with her smooth talk.

22All at once he followed her

like an ox going to the slaughter,

like a deer^b stepping into a noose^c

23till an arrow pierces his liver,

like a bird darting into a snare,

little knowing it will cost him his life.

24Now then, my sons, listen to me;

pay attention to what I say.

25Do not let your heart turn to her ways

or stray into her paths.

26Many are the victims she has brought down;

her slain are a mighty throng.

27Her house is a highway to the grave,^d

leading down to the chambers of death.