Can a man embrace fire
A man cannot carry fire against his chest without burning his clothes.
This verse introduces the first image of unavoidable consequence.
20My son, keep your father’s commandment, 21Bind them always upon your heart; 22When you walk, they will guide you; 23For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, 24to keep you from the evil woman, 25Do not lust in your heart for her beauty 26For the levy of the prostitute is poverty, 27Can a man embrace fire 28Can a man walk on hot coals 29So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; 30Men do not despise the thief 31Yet if caught, he must pay sevenfold; 32He who commits adultery lacks judgment; 33Wounds and dishonor will befall him, 34For jealousy enrages a husband, 35He will not be appeased by any ransom,