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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/20.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one&#8217s vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/20.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Don’t trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/20.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,” and to reflect only after making vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/20.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br /><i>It is</i> a snare to the man <i>who</i> devoureth <i>that which is</i> holy, and after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/20.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br /><i>It is</i> a snare for a man to devote rashly <i>something as</i> holy, And afterward to reconsider <i>his</i> vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for a person to say carelessly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/20.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />It is a trap for a man to say rashly, &#8220It is holy!&#8221 And after the vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />It is a snare for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />It is a trap for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for a man to [speak a vow of consecration and] say rashly, “It is holy!” And [not until] afterward consider [whether he can fulfill it].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly and later to reconsider his vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly and later to reconsider his vows. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/20.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man rashly to say, It is holy, And after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Don't fall into the trap of making promises to God before you think! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/20.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man rashly to say, It is holy, and after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />It is a trap for a person to say impulsively, "This is a holy offering!" and later to have second thoughts about those vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/20.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Think carefully before you promise an offering to God. You might regret it later. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/20.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />It is a trap for a person to declare quickly, "This is sacred," and only later to have second thoughts about the vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/20.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />It is a snare for a person to rashly cry, "Holy!" and only afterward to consider what he has vowed. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/20.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />A snare to a man [that] he has swallowed a holy thing, "" And to make inquiry after vows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> A snare to a man is he hath swallowed a holy thing, And after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />The snare of man swallowing down the holy thing, after the vows for seeking.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />It is ruin to a man to devour holy ones, and after vows to retract. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />It is ruin for a man to devour what is holy, or, after making vows, to retract them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/20.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />It is a trap to pledge rashly a sacred gift, and after a vow, then to reflect. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />It is a snare for one to say rashly, “It is holy,” and begin to reflect only after making a vow.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />It is a snare for a man who vows to give something to a holy place, and regrets after he has vowed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/20.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />It is a snare unto a man who vows holiness and whose soul is sorry for it after he vows.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/20.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man rashly to say: 'Holy', And after vows to make inquiry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/20.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />It is a snare to a man hastily to consecrate some of his own property: for <i>in that case</i> repentance comes after vowing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/20-25.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=4104" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/20.htm">Wine is a Mocker</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">24</span>A man’s steps are from the LORD, so how can anyone understand his own way? <span class="reftext">25</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/4170.htm" title="4170: mō·w·qêš (N-msc) -- A bait or lure, a snare. Or moqesh; from yaqosh; a noose: by implication, a hook.">It is a trap</a> <a href="/hebrew/120.htm" title="120: ’ā·ḏām (N-ms) -- Man, mankind. From 'adam; ruddy i.e. A human being.">for a man</a> <a href="/hebrew/6944.htm" title="6944: qō·ḏeš (N-ms) -- Apartness, sacredness. From qadash; a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity.">to dedicate</a> <a href="/hebrew/3216.htm" title="3216: yā·la‘ (V-Qal-Imperf.Jus-3ms) -- To blurt, utter inconsiderately. A primitive root; to blurt or utter inconsiderately.">something rashly,</a> <a href="/hebrew/310.htm" title="310: wə·’a·ḥar (Conj-w:: Adv) -- The hind or following part. From 'achar; properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after.">only later</a> <a href="/hebrew/1239.htm" title="1239: lə·ḇaq·qêr (Prep-l:: V-Piel-Inf) -- To inquire, seek. A primitive root; properly, to plough, or break forth, i.e. to inspect, admire, care for, consider.">to reconsider</a> <a href="/hebrew/5088.htm" title="5088: nə·ḏā·rîm (N-mp) -- A vow. Or neder; from nadar; a promise; also a thing promised.">his vows.</a> </span><span class="reftext">26</span>A wise king separates out the wicked and drives the threshing wheel over them.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-4.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:4-5</a></span><br />When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. / It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-33.htm">Matthew 5:33-37</a></span><br />Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’ / But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; / or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/23-21.htm">Deuteronomy 23:21-23</a></span><br />If you make a vow to the LORD your God, do not be slow to keep it, because He will surely require it of you, and you will be guilty of sin. / But if you refrain from making a vow, you will not be guilty of sin. / Be careful to follow through on what comes from your lips, because you have freely vowed to the LORD your God with your own mouth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/5-12.htm">James 5:12</a></span><br />Above all, my brothers, do not swear, not by heaven or earth or by any other oath. Simply let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, so that you will not fall under judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/numbers/30-2.htm">Numbers 30:2</a></span><br />If a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/judges/11-30.htm">Judges 11:30-31</a></span><br />Jephthah made this vow to the LORD: “If indeed You will deliver the Ammonites into my hand, / then whatever comes out the door of my house to greet me on my triumphant return from the Ammonites will belong to the LORD, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/15-4.htm">Psalm 15:4</a></span><br />who despises the vile but honors those who fear the LORD, who does not revise a costly oath,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/23-16.htm">Matthew 23:16-22</a></span><br />Woe to you, blind guides! You say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ / You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes it sacred? / And you say, ‘If anyone swears by the altar, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gift on it, he is bound by his oath.’ ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/leviticus/27-9.htm">Leviticus 27:9-10</a></span><br />If he vows an animal that may be brought as an offering to the LORD, any such animal given to the LORD shall be holy. / He must not replace it or exchange it, either good for bad or bad for good. But if he does substitute one animal for another, both that animal and its substitute will be holy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/5-1.htm">Acts 5:1-4</a></span><br />Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. / With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back some of the proceeds for himself, but brought a portion and laid it at the apostles’ feet. / Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and withhold some of the proceeds from the land? ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/14-24.htm">1 Samuel 14:24-28</a></span><br />Now the men of Israel were in distress that day, for Saul had placed the troops under an oath, saying, “Cursed is the man who eats any food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” So none of the troops tasted any food. / Then all the troops entered the forest, and there was honey on the ground. / And when they entered the forest and saw the flowing honey, not one of them put his hand to his mouth, because they feared the oath. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/malachi/1-14.htm">Malachi 1:14</a></span><br />“But cursed is the deceiver who has an acceptable male in his flock and vows to give it, but sacrifices a defective animal to the Lord. For I am a great King,” says the LORD of Hosts, “and My name is to be feared among the nations.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/7-9.htm">Mark 7:9-13</a></span><br />He went on to say, “You neatly set aside the command of God to maintain your own tradition. / For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ / But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">1 Corinthians 7:25</a></span><br />Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/1-17.htm">2 Corinthians 1:17-20</a></span><br />When I planned this, did I do it carelessly? Or do I make my plans by human standards, so as to say “Yes, yes” and also “No, no”? / But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” / For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed among you by me and Silvanus and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but in Him it has always been “Yes.” ...</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">It is a snare to the man who devours that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.</p><p class="hdg">a snare</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/18-7.htm">Proverbs 18:7</a></b></br> A fool's mouth <i>is</i> his destruction, and his lips <i>are</i> the snare of his soul.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/leviticus/5-15.htm">Leviticus 5:15</a></b></br> If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD; then he shall bring for his trespass unto the LORD a ram without blemish out of the flocks, with thy estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/leviticus/22-10.htm">Leviticus 22:10-15</a></b></br> There shall no stranger eat <i>of</i> the holy thing: a sojourner of the priest, or an hired servant, shall not eat <i>of</i> the holy thing… </p><p class="hdg">after</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/leviticus/27-9.htm">Leviticus 27:9,10,31</a></b></br> And if <i>it be</i> a beast, whereof men bring an offering unto the LORD, all that <i>any man</i> giveth of such unto the LORD shall be holy… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/numbers/30-2.htm">Numbers 30:2</a></b></br> If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-4.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:4-6</a></b></br> When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for <i>he hath</i> no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/6-6.htm">Consider</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-16.htm">Danger</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/7-5.htm">Dedicate</a> <a href="/psalms/30-1.htm">Dedication</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-28.htm">Devoureth</a> <a href="/acts/10-17.htm">Enquiry</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/job/34-24.htm">Inquiry</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-28.htm">Later</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-19.htm">Making</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-14.htm">Oaths</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">Questioning</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-18.htm">Rash</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Rashly</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-7.htm">Reflect</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-7.htm">Snare</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-6.htm">Something</a> <a href="/psalms/124-3.htm">Swallowed</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-28.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/psalms/142-3.htm">Trap</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-14.htm">Vows</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/23-1.htm">Consider</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-3.htm">Danger</a> <a href="/ezekiel/43-26.htm">Dedicate</a> <a href="/daniel/3-2.htm">Dedication</a> <a href="/isaiah/5-24.htm">Devoureth</a> <a href="/acts/10-17.htm">Enquiry</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-3.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/matthew/2-8.htm">Inquiry</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-23.htm">Later</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-25.htm">Making</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-2.htm">Oaths</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-33.htm">Questioning</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Rash</a> <a href="/acts/19-36.htm">Rashly</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-20.htm">Reflect</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-6.htm">Snare</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/1-10.htm">Something</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-12.htm">Swallowed</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-29.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-10.htm">Trap</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-2.htm">Vows</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 20</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/20-1.htm">Proper Living</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly</b><br>This phrase warns against making hasty commitments, particularly in the context of vows or dedications to God. In ancient Israel, vows were serious promises made to God, often involving sacrifices or offerings (<a href="/leviticus/27.htm">Leviticus 27:1-8</a>). The cultural context emphasizes the importance of thoughtful deliberation before making such commitments. The term "trap" suggests a snare or pitfall, indicating the potential spiritual and practical consequences of rash decisions. This aligns with <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-4.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:4-5</a>, which advises fulfilling vows promptly and not making them lightly. The concept of rashness is also seen in the story of Jephthah (<a href="/judges/11-30.htm">Judges 11:30-31, 34</a>-35), whose hasty vow led to personal tragedy.<p><b>only later to reconsider his vows</b><br>Reconsidering vows implies a change of heart or regret after making a commitment. In biblical times, vows were binding and breaking them was considered sinful (<a href="/numbers/30-2.htm">Numbers 30:2</a>). This phrase highlights the human tendency to act impulsively and the subsequent realization of the weight of one's promises. The historical context underscores the gravity of vows, as they were not only personal commitments but also public declarations of faithfulness to God. Jesus addresses the issue of oaths in <a href="/matthew/5-33.htm">Matthew 5:33-37</a>, urging honesty and integrity without the need for elaborate promises. This reflects the broader biblical theme of sincerity in one's relationship with God, as seen in <a href="/psalms/15-4.htm">Psalm 15:4</a>, which praises those who keep their promises even when it is difficult.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights often reflect the practical and spiritual challenges faced by individuals in their daily lives.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/ancient_israel.htm">Ancient Israel</a></b><br>The cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, where vows and dedications were common practices, often made before God as a sign of commitment or gratitude.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/v/vows_and_dedications.htm">Vows and Dedications</a></b><br>In the biblical context, these were solemn promises made to God, often involving offerings or sacrifices. They were not to be taken lightly, as they were binding and sacred.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_rash_decisions.htm">The Danger of Rash Decisions</a></b><br>Making hasty commitments, especially spiritual ones, can lead to regret and spiritual consequences. It is crucial to consider the weight of our words and promises before making them.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_integrity.htm">The Importance of Integrity</a></b><br>Our integrity is reflected in our ability to keep our promises. As Christians, we are called to be people of our word, reflecting God's faithfulness in our own lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_god's_guidance.htm">Seeking God's Guidance</a></b><br>Before making any vow or dedication, seek God's wisdom and guidance through prayer and reflection. This ensures that our commitments align with His will and purpose for our lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_reconsideration.htm">The Consequences of Reconsideration</a></b><br>Reconsidering a vow can lead to a loss of trust and credibility. It is better to refrain from making a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/living_a_life_of_consistency.htm">Living a Life of Consistency</a></b><br>Consistency in our commitments and actions builds a strong testimony. Our lives should reflect the consistency and reliability of God's character.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 20</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_the_bible_say_to_keep_secrets.htm">Do you fulfill your vows to God faithfully?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_breaking_vows.htm">What does the Bible say about breaking vows?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_would_god_allow_violent_vows.htm">How could an all-knowing God condone vows leading to violence against families and communities (Judges 21:1–11)? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/do_you_keep_your_vows_to_god.htm">Do you fulfill your vows to God faithfully?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/20.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(25) <span class= "bld">It is a snare to a man who devoureth that which is holy.--</span>Rather, <span class= "ital">It is a snare for a man </span>(<span class= "ital">i.e., </span>gets him into trouble) <span class= "ital">rashly to say, </span>"<span class= "ital">It is dedicated" </span>(i.e., when he thoughtlessly dedicates anything to God), <span class= "ital">and after he has vowed to enquire </span>(whether he can keep his word). (Comp. <a href="//apocrypha.org/ecclesiasticus/5-2.htm" title="Follow not thine own mind and thy strength, to walk in the ways of thy heart:">Ecclesiasticus 5:2</a>; <a href="//apocrypha.org/ecclesiasticus/5-4.htm" title="Say not, I have sinned, and what harm hath happened unto me? for the Lord is longsuffering, he will in no wise let thee go.">Ecclesiasticus 5:4-6</a>.)<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/20.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 25.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy.</span> This verse, which is plainly a warning against rash vows, has received more than one interpretation. The Vulgate has, <span class="accented">Ruina est homini devorare sanctos</span>, which is explained to mean that it is destruction for a man to persecute the saints of God. But the word <span class="accented">devorare</span> is not certain, as the manuscripts vary between this and four other readings, viz. <span class="accented">devotares, denotare, devovere</span>, and <span class="accented">devocare.</span> The Authorized Version signifies that it is a sin to take for one's own consumption things dedicated to God, as firstfruits, the priests' portions, etc.: or a man's snare, <span class="accented">i.e.</span> his covetousness (<a href="/1_timothy/6-9.htm">1 Timothy 6:9</a>), leads him to commit sacrilege. So Wordsworth. But it is best, with Delitzsch, to take <span class="hebrew">יָלַע</span> (<span class="accented">yala</span>) as the abbreviated future of <span class="hebrew">לוּע</span> or <span class="hebrew">לָעַע</span>, "to speak rashly;" and then <span class="accented">kodesh</span>, "holiness," will be an exclamation, like <span class="accented">korban</span> (<a href="/mark/7-11.htm">Mark 7:11</a>). The clause will then run, "It is a snare to a man rashly to cry, Holiness!" equivalent to "It is holy!" <span class="accented">i.e.</span> to use the formula for consecrating something to holy purposes. Septuagint, "It is a snare to a man hastily to consecrate something of his own" (comp. <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2, 4</a>, etc.). <span class="cmt_word">And after vows to make inquiry;</span> <span class="accented">i.e.</span> after he has made his vow, to begin to consider whether he can fulfil it or not. This is a snare to a man, strangles his conscience, and leads him into the grievous sins of perjury and sacrilege. Septuagint, "For after vowing ensueth repentance." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/20-25.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">It is a trap</span><br /><span class="heb">מוֹקֵ֣שׁ</span> <span class="translit">(mō·w·qêš)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4170.htm">Strong's 4170: </a> </span><span class="str2">A bait or lure, a snare</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for a man</span><br /><span class="heb">אָ֭דָם</span> <span class="translit">(’ā·ḏām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_120.htm">Strong's 120: </a> </span><span class="str2">Ruddy, a human being</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to dedicate</span><br /><span class="heb">קֹ֑דֶשׁ</span> <span class="translit">(qō·ḏeš)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6944.htm">Strong's 6944: </a> </span><span class="str2">A sacred place, thing, sanctity</span><br /><br /><span class="word">something rashly</span><br /><span class="heb">יָ֣לַע</span> <span class="translit">(yā·la‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect Jussive - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3216.htm">Strong's 3216: </a> </span><span class="str2">To blurt, utter inconsiderately</span><br /><br /><span class="word">only later</span><br /><span class="heb">וְאַחַ֖ר</span> <span class="translit">(wə·’a·ḥar)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_310.htm">Strong's 310: </a> </span><span class="str2">The hind or following part</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to reconsider</span><br /><span class="heb">לְבַקֵּֽר׃</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ḇaq·qêr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1239.htm">Strong's 1239: </a> </span><span class="str2">To plough, break forth, to inspect, admire, care for, consider</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his vows.</span><br /><span class="heb">נְדָרִ֣ים</span> <span class="translit">(nə·ḏā·rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5088.htm">Strong's 5088: </a> </span><span class="str2">A promise, a thing promised</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/20-25.htm">Proverbs 20:25 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/20-25.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 20:25 It is a snare to a man (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/20-24.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 20:24"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 20:24" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/20-26.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 20:26"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 20:26" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>