Proverbs 2:15–16 (KJV 1900) — 15 Whose ways are crooked, And they froward in their paths: 16 To deliver thee from the strange woman, Even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;

The ways (motives) of evil persons are crooked, and their deeds (paths) are perverse.

Wisdom and knowledge will not only deliver from evil persons, but from the “strange woman.” This can be a literal woman who entices to evil, or she may be a figurative representation of spiritual folly in contrast to wisdom.

Flattery is the first characteristic of the strange woman. Flattery means “false praise; commendation bestowed for the purpose of gaining favor and influence, or to accomplish some purpose” (Webster).

Psalm 12:3 (KJV 1900) — 3 The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, And the tongue that speaketh proud things:

Proverbs 20:19 (KJV 1900) — 19 He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: Therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

Proverbs 29:5 (KJV 1900) — 5 A man that flattereth his neighbour Spreadeth a net for his feet.

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