In the structure of this verse the second line does not simply repeat the thought of the first line in other words; it extends the sense by adding a second picture to that given in the first line.

“But in the end she is bitter as wormwood”: “In the end” means the final result, after having a relationship with her, when it is all over and done. Contemporary English Version says, “But all that you really get from being with her. . ..” Some other translations say, “But when you’ve finished with her. . ..” “Wormwood” is usually a symbol of suffering as the result of injustice. See Amos 5.7; 6.12. It is a plant from which a bitter-tasting juice is made and used as a medicine. See Lam 3.15. If a medicine made from a local plant is known for its bitter or foul taste, it may be used here. Quinine is an example that is known in some parts of the world. The thought expressed in this line is what at first appeared so pleasant ends up like bitter tasting medicine. If there is no local plant that can serve, it may be possible to say, for example, “but that woman turns out to be like a bitter tasting plant” or “but after some time that woman is like poison.”

“Sharp as a two-edged sword”: This figure, which is literally “sword of edges,” is also used in Psa 149.6. It refers to that which causes wounds and pain. If the image of the sword is not suitable here, it may be possible to substitute a knife or other sharp instrument. It is also possible to include the nonfigurative meaning; for example, “and she wounds a person like a knife cuts them.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Proverbs. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2000. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .