What does Proverbs 5:16 mean?
"Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets." - Proverbs 5:16

Proverbs 5:16 KJV reads: "Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets."
This verse from the Book of Proverbs is a part of a larger passage that provides guidance on avoiding the temptation of adultery and seeking fulfillment within the bounds of marriage. In the preceding verses, the author warns against the seductive allure of the adulterous woman and admonishes the reader to stay faithful to their spouse. The verse in question, Proverbs 5:16, serves as a metaphor for the satisfaction and fulfillment found within the confines of a committed relationship.
The imagery of fountains and rivers in the streets signifies abundance and overflow. The idea of letting one's fountains be dispersed abroad and rivers of waters in the streets portrays an image of generosity and freedom. The verse encourages the reader to embrace an attitude of abundance and to allow their blessings to flow freely to those around them. This can be interpreted as a call to share the love and joy found within a committed relationship with others.
The context of this verse within the larger passage on fidelity and loyalty in marriage emphasizes the importance of being satisfied and fulfilled within the bounds of one's relationship. By sharing the abundance of one's love and commitment with their spouse, the individual can strengthen the bond and create a sense of unity and prosperity within their marriage. This verse serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from a faithful and loving relationship, rather than seeking satisfaction outside of marriage.
The imagery of fountains and rivers also carries symbolic significance within the biblical context. In the Bible, water often symbolizes life, purification, and the Holy Spirit. Fountains and rivers are sources of life-giving water, and they are often used to represent the abundance of God's blessings and the flow of His Spirit. By using this imagery, the verse reinforces the idea that true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found by embracing the abundance of God's love and living in accordance with His will.
Additionally, the imagery of fountains and rivers in the streets can be interpreted as a call to share the message of God's love and grace with the world. The streets represent public spaces and the community at large. By allowing the rivers of water to flow in the streets, the verse encourages the reader to spread the message of God's love and blessings to those around them. This aligns with the broader themes of spreading God's love and living in accordance with His commandments found throughout the Book of Proverbs and the Bible as a whole.
Overall, Proverbs 5:16 encourages the reader to find fulfillment and satisfaction within the bounds of a committed relationship, to share the abundance of their love and blessings with others, and to spread the message of God's love and grace to the world. The verse uses powerful and evocative imagery to reinforce these themes, and its message serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of faithfulness, generosity, and living in accordance with God's will.
Have questions about Proverbs 5:16?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Proverbs 5:16 Artwork
Proverbs 5:16 - "Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets."
"Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets." - Proverbs 5:16
Proverbs 16:5 - "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished."
Proverbs 16
Proverbs 27:16
"Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." - Proverbs 16:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 16:16 - "How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!"
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 1:5
proverbs 5:12
proverbs 5:11
Proverbs 12:5
Proverbs 1:5
proverbs 5:12
Proverbs 5:5 - "Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell."
proverbs 5:11-12
Proverbs 16:33 - "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD."
Proverbs 16:24 - "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:31 - "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness."
Proverbs 16:14 - "The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it."
proverbs 5:11-12