This verse warns against reckless financial commitments and illustrates the importance of prudence in daily life.
The proverb offers a direct warning that involves the risks of financial entanglements: “Take his garment when he becomes surety for a stranger; And for foreigners, hold him in pledge” (Proverbs 20:16). By saying “take his garment” (v.16), the verse pictures the extreme consequences of guaranteeing someone else’s debt. In ancient Israel (the region encompassing what is now modern-day Israel and parts of Palestine), personal garments could be taken as security for a debt, indicating how a creditor would seize even a debtor’s essential clothing if it was pledged rashly. This warning underscores that one should exercise great caution before co-signing or becoming responsible for the obligations of those unknown or known to be unreliable.
Continuing the theme, the phrase “when he becomes surety for a stranger” (v.16) emphasizes the danger of trusting someone whose background is uncertain. Whether a stranger was from one’s own locality or an outsider from a distant place, the risk of default remained high. The context of ancient financial agreements suggests that recklessness in extending credit could leave a guarantor destitute. This principle resonates with Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament, which remind believers that accountability and prudence in matters of faith and everyday life often go hand in hand (Luke 16:10).
Finally, “And for foreigners, hold him in pledge” (v.16) builds on the same caution. If a person wanted to engage in any contractual agreement, particularly with those from another region or nation, they needed to remember that promises alone are insufficient protection if something goes wrong. The verse portrays a practical dimension of wisdom: God’s people should use sound judgment while still being generous and compassionate. There is a balance between helping others and maintaining personal responsibility before God and community.
Set to dark mode
Proverbs 20:16 meaning
The proverb offers a direct warning that involves the risks of financial entanglements: “Take his garment when he becomes surety for a stranger; And for foreigners, hold him in pledge” (Proverbs 20:16). By saying “take his garment” (v.16), the verse pictures the extreme consequences of guaranteeing someone else’s debt. In ancient Israel (the region encompassing what is now modern-day Israel and parts of Palestine), personal garments could be taken as security for a debt, indicating how a creditor would seize even a debtor’s essential clothing if it was pledged rashly. This warning underscores that one should exercise great caution before co-signing or becoming responsible for the obligations of those unknown or known to be unreliable.
Continuing the theme, the phrase “when he becomes surety for a stranger” (v.16) emphasizes the danger of trusting someone whose background is uncertain. Whether a stranger was from one’s own locality or an outsider from a distant place, the risk of default remained high. The context of ancient financial agreements suggests that recklessness in extending credit could leave a guarantor destitute. This principle resonates with Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament, which remind believers that accountability and prudence in matters of faith and everyday life often go hand in hand (Luke 16:10).
Finally, “And for foreigners, hold him in pledge” (v.16) builds on the same caution. If a person wanted to engage in any contractual agreement, particularly with those from another region or nation, they needed to remember that promises alone are insufficient protection if something goes wrong. The verse portrays a practical dimension of wisdom: God’s people should use sound judgment while still being generous and compassionate. There is a balance between helping others and maintaining personal responsibility before God and community.