Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows. New Living Translation Don’t trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost. English Standard Version It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,” and to reflect only after making vows. Berean Standard Bible It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows. King James Bible It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make inquiry. New King James Version It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy, And afterward to reconsider his vows. New American Standard Bible It is a trap for a person to say carelessly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry. NASB 1995 It is a trap for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry. NASB 1977 It is a snare for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry. Legacy Standard Bible It is a trap for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!” And after the vows to make inquiry. Amplified Bible 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]. Christian Standard Bible It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly and later to reconsider his vows. Holman Christian Standard Bible It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly and later to reconsider his vows. American Standard Version It is a snare to a man rashly to say, It is holy, And after vows to make inquiry. Contemporary English Version Don't fall into the trap of making promises to God before you think! English Revised Version It is a snare to a man rashly to say, It is holy, and after vows to make inquiry. GOD'S WORD® Translation It is a trap for a person to say impulsively, "This is a holy offering!" and later to have second thoughts about those vows. Good News Translation Think carefully before you promise an offering to God. You might regret it later. International Standard Version It is a trap for a person to declare quickly, "This is sacred," and only later to have second thoughts about the vows. NET Bible It is a snare for a person to rashly cry, "Holy!" and only afterward to consider what he has vowed. New Heart English Bible It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows. Webster's Bible Translation It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make inquiry. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleIt is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows. World English Bible It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionA snare to a man [that] he has swallowed a holy thing, "" And to make inquiry after vows. Young's Literal Translation A snare to a man is he hath swallowed a holy thing, And after vows to make inquiry. Smith's Literal Translation The snare of man swallowing down the holy thing, after the vows for seeking. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleIt is ruin to a man to devour holy ones, and after vows to retract. Catholic Public Domain Version It is ruin for a man to devour what is holy, or, after making vows, to retract them. New American Bible It is a trap to pledge rashly a sacred gift, and after a vow, then to reflect. New Revised Standard Version It is a snare for one to say rashly, “It is holy,” and begin to reflect only after making a vow. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleIt is a snare for a man who vows to give something to a holy place, and regrets after he has vowed. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated It is a snare unto a man who vows holiness and whose soul is sorry for it after he vows. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917It is a snare to a man rashly to say: 'Holy', And after vows to make inquiry. Brenton Septuagint Translation It is a snare to a man hastily to consecrate some of his own property: for in that case repentance comes after vowing. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Wine is a Mocker…24A man’s steps are from the LORD, so how can anyone understand his own way? 25It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows. 26A wise king separates out the wicked and drives the threshing wheel over them.… Cross References Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 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. Matthew 5:33-37 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. ... Deuteronomy 23:21-23 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. James 5:12 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. Numbers 30:2 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. Judges 11:30-31 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.” Psalm 15:4 who despises the vile but honors those who fear the LORD, who does not revise a costly oath, Matthew 23:16-22 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.’ ... Leviticus 27:9-10 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. Acts 5:1-4 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? ... 1 Samuel 14:24-28 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. ... Malachi 1:14 “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. Mark 7:9-13 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), ... 1 Corinthians 7:25 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. 2 Corinthians 1:17-20 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.” ... Treasury of Scripture It is a snare to the man who devours that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry. a snare Proverbs 18:7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. Leviticus 5:15 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: Leviticus 22:10-15 There shall no stranger eat of the holy thing: a sojourner of the priest, or an hired servant, shall not eat of the holy thing… after Leviticus 27:9,10,31 And if it be a beast, whereof men bring an offering unto the LORD, all that any man giveth of such unto the LORD shall be holy… Numbers 30:2 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. Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed… Jump to Previous Consider Danger Dedicate Dedication Devoureth Enquiry Holy Inquiry Later Making Oaths Questioning Rash Rashly Reflect Snare Something Swallowed Thought Trap VowsJump to Next Consider Danger Dedicate Dedication Devoureth Enquiry Holy Inquiry Later Making Oaths Questioning Rash Rashly Reflect Snare Something Swallowed Thought Trap VowsProverbs 20 1. Proper LivingIt is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly 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 (Leviticus 27:1-8). 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 Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, which advises fulfilling vows promptly and not making them lightly. The concept of rashness is also seen in the story of Jephthah (Judges 11:30-31, 34-35), whose hasty vow led to personal tragedy. only later to reconsider his vows Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally 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. 2. Ancient Israel 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. 3. Vows and Dedications 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. Teaching Points The Danger of Rash DecisionsMaking 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. The Importance of Integrity 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. Seeking God's Guidance 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. The Consequences of Reconsideration 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. Living a Life of Consistency Consistency in our commitments and actions builds a strong testimony. Our lives should reflect the consistency and reliability of God's character. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 20:25?2. How does Proverbs 20:25 warn against making rash vows to God? 3. What are the consequences of not considering vows, according to Proverbs 20:25? 4. How does Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 relate to Proverbs 20:25 on vows? 5. How can we ensure our commitments align with God's will, per Proverbs 20:25? 6. What steps can you take to avoid "a trap" in your spiritual life? 7. What does Proverbs 20:25 mean by "It is a trap to dedicate something rashly"? 8. How does Proverbs 20:25 challenge impulsive decisions in religious commitments? 9. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 20:25? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 20? 11. Do you fulfill your vows to God faithfully? 12. What does the Bible say about breaking vows? 13. How could an all-knowing God condone vows leading to violence against families and communities (Judges 21:1–11)? 14. Do you fulfill your vows to God faithfully? What Does Proverbs 20:25 Mean It is a trapThe proverb begins with a stark warning: “It is a trap…” A trap is unseen until it snaps shut, and Scripture often uses that imagery for spiritual dangers (Proverbs 29:25; 1 Timothy 6:9). Here the snare lies in our own words. What feels harmless in the moment can suddenly bind us, much like the “thorns and snares” set before the wayward (Proverbs 22:5). Recognizing that hidden peril invites us to slow down, pray, and weigh our promises before speaking. for a man to dedicate something rashly To “dedicate” is to set something apart for God’s use—time, money, possessions, even ourselves. The problem surfaces when the dedication is rash, impulsive, or emotion-driven. • Jephthah’s tragic vow in Judges 11:30-35 illustrates the pain of hasty words. • God anticipated such impulsiveness and provided guidelines in Leviticus 27:1-13, showing He takes vows seriously. • Proverbs 19:2 cautions, “Enthusiasm without knowledge is not good,” reminding us that zeal must be guided by wisdom. • Deuteronomy 23:21 urges, “When you make a vow to the LORD your God, do not delay to pay it,” underscoring that God expects follow-through, not spur-of-the-moment pledges. only later to reconsider his vows The snare tightens when regret sets in. Once the words are out, the promise stands (Numbers 30:2). Second thoughts do not dissolve the obligation. • Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 warns that delaying or reneging on vows offends God and invites ruin. • Psalm 15:4 praises the person “who keeps his oath, even when it hurts,” highlighting integrity over convenience. • Jesus upholds the same standard, urging straightforward honesty over elaborate oaths (Matthew 5:33-37). Looking back with remorse is avoidable when we first look ahead with discernment. Careful reflection before making a commitment spares us the spiritual turmoil of scrambling for an escape clause afterward. summary Proverbs 20:25 teaches that words offered to God—or to others—carry covenant weight. Hasty promises spring from impulse, not discernment, and quickly become snares when reality sets in. Scripture calls us to measured speech, thoughtful dedication, and unwavering follow-through. By pausing to seek God’s wisdom before we vow, we avoid the trap and walk in integrity that honors Him and blesses those around us. (25) It is a snare to a man who devoureth that which is holy.--Rather, It is a snare for a man (i.e., gets him into trouble) rashly to say, "It is dedicated" (i.e., when he thoughtlessly dedicates anything to God), and after he has vowed to enquire (whether he can keep his word). (Comp. Ecclesiasticus 5:2; Ecclesiasticus 5:4-6.)Verse 25. - It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy. This verse, which is plainly a warning against rash vows, has received more than one interpretation. The Vulgate has, Ruina est homini devorare sanctos, which is explained to mean that it is destruction for a man to persecute the saints of God. But the word devorare is not certain, as the manuscripts vary between this and four other readings, viz. devotares, denotare, devovere, and devocare. 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, i.e. his covetousness (1 Timothy 6:9), leads him to commit sacrilege. So Wordsworth. But it is best, with Delitzsch, to take יָלַע (yala) as the abbreviated future of לוּע or לָעַע, "to speak rashly;" and then kodesh, "holiness," will be an exclamation, like korban (Mark 7:11). The clause will then run, "It is a snare to a man rashly to cry, Holiness!" equivalent to "It is holy!" i.e. 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. Ecclesiastes 5:2, 4, etc.). And after vows to make inquiry; i.e. 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."Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew It is a trapמוֹקֵ֣שׁ (mō·w·qêš) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 4170: A bait or lure, a snare for a man אָ֭דָם (’ā·ḏām) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 120: Ruddy, a human being to dedicate קֹ֑דֶשׁ (qō·ḏeš) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 6944: A sacred place, thing, sanctity something rashly יָ֣לַע (yā·la‘) Verb - Qal - Imperfect Jussive - third person masculine singular Strong's 3216: To blurt, utter inconsiderately only later וְאַחַ֖ר (wə·’a·ḥar) Conjunctive waw | Adverb Strong's 310: The hind or following part to reconsider לְבַקֵּֽר׃ (lə·ḇaq·qêr) Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct Strong's 1239: To plough, break forth, to inspect, admire, care for, consider his vows. נְדָרִ֣ים (nə·ḏā·rîm) Noun - masculine plural Strong's 5088: A promise, a thing promised Links Proverbs 20:25 NIVProverbs 20:25 NLT Proverbs 20:25 ESV Proverbs 20:25 NASB Proverbs 20:25 KJV Proverbs 20:25 BibleApps.com Proverbs 20:25 Biblia Paralela Proverbs 20:25 Chinese Bible Proverbs 20:25 French Bible Proverbs 20:25 Catholic Bible OT Poetry: Proverbs 20:25 It is a snare to a man (Prov. 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