Proverbs 29:25
New International Version
Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.

New Living Translation
Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety.

English Standard Version
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.

Berean Standard Bible
The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.

King James Bible
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

New King James Version
The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe.

New American Standard Bible
The fear of man brings a snare, But one who trusts in the LORD will be protected.

NASB 1995
The fear of man brings a snare, But he who trusts in the LORD will be exalted.

NASB 1977
The fear of man brings a snare, But he who trusts in the LORD will be exalted.

Legacy Standard Bible
Trembling before man brings a snare, But he who trusts in Yahweh will be set securely on high.

Amplified Bible
The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in and puts his confidence in the LORD will be exalted and safe.

Christian Standard Bible
The fear of mankind is a snare, but the one who trusts in the LORD is protected.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the LORD is protected.

American Standard Version
The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.

Contemporary English Version
Don't fall into the trap of being a coward--trust the LORD, and you will be safe.

English Revised Version
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
A person's fear sets a trap [for him], but one who trusts the LORD is safe.

Good News Translation
It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the LORD, you are safe.

International Standard Version
Fearing any human being is a trap, but confiding in the LORD keeps anyone safe.

Majority Standard Bible
The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.

NET Bible
The fear of people becomes a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD will be set on high.

New Heart English Bible
The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the LORD will be set on high.

Webster's Bible Translation
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but he who putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

World English Bible
The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in Yahweh is kept safe.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Fear of man causes a snare, "" And the confident in YHWH is set on high.

Young's Literal Translation
Fear of man causeth a snare, And the confident in Jehovah is set on high.

Smith's Literal Translation
The fear of man will give a snare: and he trusting in Jehovah shall be exalted.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
He that feareth man, shall quickly fall: he that trusteth in the Lord, shall be set on high.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Whoever fears man will quickly fall. Whoever hopes in the Lord shall be lifted up.

New American Bible
Fear of others becomes a snare, but the one who trusts in the LORD is safe.

New Revised Standard Version
The fear of others lays a snare, but one who trusts in the LORD is secure.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The iniquity of a man becomes a stumblingblock to him; but he who puts his trust in the LORD shall become strong.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The evil of a man makes him a scandal and he that trusts upon LORD JEHOVAH will prevail.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be set up on high.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
they fearing and reverencing men unreasonably have been overthrown, but he that trusts in the Lord shall rejoice. Ungodliness causes a man to stumble: but he that trusts in his master shall be safe.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Stiff-Necked will Be Destroyed
24A partner to a thief hates his own soul; he receives the oath, but does not testify. 25The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high. 26Many seek the ruler’s favor, but a man receives justice from the LORD.…

Cross References
Psalm 56:3-4
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. / In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Jeremiah 17:7-8
But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. / He is like a tree planted by the waters that sends out its roots toward the stream. It does not fear when the heat comes, and its leaves are always green. It does not worry in a year of drought, nor does it cease to produce fruit.

Psalm 118:8-9
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. / It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.

Matthew 10:28
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

Psalm 27:1
Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?

Hebrews 13:6
So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Psalm 146:3-5
Put not your trust in princes, in mortal man, who cannot save. / When his spirit departs, he returns to the ground; on that very day his plans perish. / Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

Psalm 112:7
He does not fear bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. / And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 12:2
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. For the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and He also has become my salvation.”


Treasury of Scripture

The fear of man brings a snare: but whoever puts his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

fear

Genesis 12:11-13
And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarai his wife, Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: …

Genesis 20:2,11
And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She is my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah…

Genesis 26:7
And the men of the place asked him of his wife; and he said, She is my sister: for he feared to say, She is my wife; lest, said he, the men of the place should kill me for Rebekah; because she was fair to look upon.

whoso

Proverbs 16:20
He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Proverbs 30:5
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

safe

Psalm 69:29
But I am poor and sorrowful: let thy salvation, O God, set me up on high.

Psalm 91:14
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

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Cause Causeth Confidence Danger Exalted Faith Fear High Kept Lays Protected Prove Proves Puts Putteth Safe Snare Trust Trusts
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Cause Causeth Confidence Danger Exalted Faith Fear High Kept Lays Protected Prove Proves Puts Putteth Safe Snare Trust Trusts
Proverbs 29
1. observations of public government
15. and of private
22. Of anger, pride, thievery, cowardice and corruption














The fear of man is a snare
The phrase "fear of man" refers to the anxiety or concern about what others think or might do, which can lead to compromising one's values or beliefs. In biblical times, this fear could manifest in various ways, such as fearing persecution, social ostracism, or loss of status. The term "snare" suggests a trap or a dangerous situation that can entangle and capture someone, leading to spiritual or moral compromise. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 51:12-13, where God reminds His people not to fear mortal men. The fear of man can lead to actions that are contrary to God's will, as seen in the life of King Saul, who disobeyed God due to fear of the people's opinion (1 Samuel 15:24).

but whoever trusts in the LORD
Trusting in the LORD implies a deep, abiding faith and reliance on God's character and promises. This trust is a central theme throughout the Bible, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the LORD with all their heart. Trusting God involves acknowledging His sovereignty, wisdom, and goodness, even when circumstances are challenging. This trust is not passive but active, requiring believers to live out their faith through obedience and reliance on God's guidance. The historical context of Israel's reliance on God during times of trouble, such as the Exodus, serves as a backdrop for understanding the importance of trust in God.

is set securely on high
The imagery of being "set securely on high" suggests safety, protection, and exaltation. In ancient times, high places were often seen as secure locations, away from danger and enemies. This phrase indicates that those who trust in the LORD are elevated above the fears and threats that might otherwise ensnare them. This concept is reflected in Psalm 91:14, where God promises to protect those who love Him and acknowledge His name. The idea of being set on high also points to the ultimate security found in a relationship with God, who is a refuge and fortress for His people. This security is not just physical but spiritual, offering peace and assurance in the midst of life's challenges.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and divine wisdom are reflected throughout the book of Proverbs.

2. Israel
The nation to whom the Proverbs were initially addressed. The cultural and historical context of Israel provides a backdrop for understanding the societal pressures and fears that might lead one to fear man over God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God used in the Old Testament, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. Trusting in Yahweh is contrasted with fearing man.
Teaching Points
The Danger of Human Approval
The "fear of man" can lead to compromise and sin. It is a snare that traps us into valuing human opinion over God's truth.

Trust as a Secure Foundation
Trusting in the LORD provides security and stability. The Hebrew word for "trust" (batach) implies confidence and reliance, suggesting a firm foundation.

Elevated Perspective
Being "set securely on high" indicates a position of safety and perspective. Trusting God lifts us above the immediate fears and pressures of life.

Faith Over Fear
Cultivating a deep trust in God helps us overcome the fear of man. This trust is built through prayer, scripture study, and obedience.

Practical Steps to Trust
Regularly remind yourself of God's promises, surround yourself with a community of believers, and practice obedience in small steps to build trust in God.(25) The fear of man bringeth a snare.--Even, it may be, the loss of eternal life. (Comp. Matthew 10:28; John 12:25.)

Verse 25. - The fear of man bringeth a snare. He who, through fear of what man may do to him, think or say of him, does what he knows to be wrong, lets his moral cowardice lead him into sin, leaves duty undone, - such a man gets no real good from his weakness, outrages conscience, displeases God. See our Lord's words (Matthew 10:28; Mark 8:38; and comp. Isaiah 51:12, etc). Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (Proverbs 18:10). Such trust carries a man safe through all dangers; fearing to offend God, living as always under his eye, he feels Divine protection, and knows that whatever happens is for the best. The LXX. joins this to the preceding verse, thus: "He who shareth with a thief hateth his own soul; and if, when an oath is offered, they who hear it give, no information, they fearing and reverencing men, are overthrown, but he that trusteth in the Lord shall rejoice." They add another rendering of the last verse, "Ungodliness causeth a man to stumble, but he who trusts in the Lord (ἐπὶ τῷ δεσπότῃ 2 Peter 2:1) shall be saved." Δεσπότης is used for Jehovah in the New Testament, e.g., Luke 2:29; Acts 4:24.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The fear
חֶרְדַּ֣ת (ḥer·daṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2731: Trembling, fear, anxiety

of man
אָ֭דָם (’ā·ḏām)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120: Ruddy, a human being

is
יִתֵּ֣ן (yit·tên)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5414: To give, put, set

a snare,
מוֹקֵ֑שׁ (mō·w·qêš)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4170: A bait or lure, a snare

but whoever trusts
וּבוֹטֵ֖חַ (ū·ḇō·w·ṭê·aḥ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 982: To trust, be confident, sure

in the LORD
בַּיהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

will be set securely on high.
יְשֻׂגָּֽב׃ (yə·śug·gāḇ)
Verb - Pual - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7682: To be, lofty, inaccessible, safe, strong


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man proves to be (Prov. Pro Pr)
Proverbs 29:24
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