The Book of Proverbs is one of my favorite books in the Bible. Indeed, it’s among my favorite books period! Anyone who wants wisdom –and that should be all of us — needs to regularly read and study Proverbs. But…
There are some verses in Proverbs which are difficult for readers in the 21st century to fully grasp. And here is one of them…
“He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.”
–Proverbs 11:15 (KJV)
Reading that in the KJV (my favorite English translation – and the default translation of this blog) makes this even tougher for some modern readers. So, here are a few other English translations…
- New King James Version (NKJV): “He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, But one who hates being surety is secure.”
- New International Version (NIV): “Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.”
- New American Standard Bible (NASB): “He who is guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, But he who hates being a guarantor is secure.”
- English Standard Version (ESV): “Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure.”
Original Hebrew and Historical Context
The key Hebrew term in this verse is עָרַב (arav), which means “to give or be security” or “to be surety.” This reflects a legal and financial practice where a person guarantees another’s debt. Historically, being surety was a serious commitment; if the primary debtor failed to fulfill their obligations, the surety (guarantor) would have to pay the debt, often leading to significant personal loss.
In ancient Israel, the concept of banking as we understand it today—complete with financial institutions offering a wide range of services—did not exist. Therefore, it would be incorrect to read this proverb as necessarily pertaining to banks or large businesses (though it arguably does have implications for small and family-owned businesses).
For the ancient Israelites, there were rudimentary forms of money lending. Individuals, rather than institutions, typically performed this lending, and it was a practice regulated by the Mosaic Law. The Law included commands against charging interest (usury) to fellow Israelites (Leviticus 25:36-37), although interest could be charged to foreigners (Deuteronomy 23:20).
This proverb served as a caution against the potential dangers of assuming responsibility for another’s financial risk, especially in cases where the debtor is a stranger and thus less likely to be reliable. In ancient Israel, where personal and family resources were crucial for survival and social stability, such financial entanglements could lead to disaster.
Practical Application for Believers Today
In contemporary terms, Proverbs 11:15 offers sage advice on financial wisdom and personal responsibility. The economy of the 21st century (especially here in the United States) is very different from that of ancient Israel, but the wisdom principles inherent in this proverb still stand.
As noted previously, this proverb should be understood as primarily applicable to individuals (and perhaps small businesses, especially sole proprietorships or family-owned businesses), not so much large corporations or governments. In other words, this proverb was NOT written for Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or the U.S. federal government.
But it most certainly applies to you and me as individuals. And it applies to families. God’s people who want to be good stewards of that which God has entrusted us with should take note of Proverbs 11:15.
In a world where debts and financial obligations are complex and can have long-reaching consequences, this verse serves as a prudent reminder:
- Be Cautious with Financial Guarantees: Just as in ancient times, cosigning a loan or assuming financial liability for another person carries risks. This proverb encourages caution, particularly with those you do not know well.
- Understand the Commitment: Before entering into financial agreements where you become a guarantor, fully understand the implications. If the primary party defaults, you will be held responsible, which could impact your financial health and stability.
- Seek Financial Prudence: The broader teaching of Proverbs encourages wise stewardship of resources. This includes avoiding unnecessary risks that could lead to financial harm. It’s wise to consult with financial advisors or mentors when faced with significant decisions that could impact your financial future.
- Spiritual Wisdom in Relationships: On a spiritual level, this verse can be seen as an admonition to be discerning about whom we enter into binding agreements or close partnerships. Relationships, whether financial, personal, or professional, should be entered into with wisdom and discernment.
But wait! Wait! Shouldn’t we help those in need?
I can hear some people thinking that. 🙂 I like what Dave Ramsey has said on the subject. Years ago, I was listening to one of his financial talks, and he said that we should be very reluctant to loan money to family or friends in need. It will likely strain that relationship. Instead, if it’s appropriate to help a family member or friend in need, give them the money. Make it a gift, not a loan.
Proverbs 11:15 has nothing to do with gifts or charity. It’s about not tying up your word, credit, reputation, or finances in with someone you don’t know and have little reason to trust.
Yes, we should be loving and generous (although we should be these things with wisdom), but when it comes to taking out loans, guaranteeing loans, making investments, or entering into financial arrangements or guarantees with and for others… we must be cautious, responsible, and wise.
Next to Divine Providence, wisdom is the surest safeguard to our financial security.
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