Proverbs 6:2
New International Version
you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.

New Living Translation
if you have trapped yourself by your agreement and are caught by what you said—

English Standard Version
if you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth,

Berean Standard Bible
if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth,

King James Bible
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

New King James Version
You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth.

New American Standard Bible
If you have been ensnared by the words of your mouth, Or caught by the words of your mouth,

NASB 1995
If you have been snared with the words of your mouth, Have been caught with the words of your mouth,

NASB 1977
If you have been snared with the words of your mouth, Have been caught with the words of your mouth,

Legacy Standard Bible
If you have been snared with the words of your mouth, Have been caught with the words of your mouth,

Amplified Bible
If you have been snared with the words of your lips, If you have been trapped by the speech of your mouth,

Christian Standard Bible
you have been snared by the words of your mouth— trapped by the words from your mouth.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
you have been trapped by the words of your lips— ensnared by the words of your mouth.

American Standard Version
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, Thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

Contemporary English Version
Then you are trapped by your own words,

English Revised Version
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
you are trapped by the words of your own mouth, caught by your own promise.

Good News Translation
Have you been caught by your own words, trapped by your own promises?

International Standard Version
trapped by your own words, and caught by your own words,

NET Bible
if you have been ensnared by the words you have uttered, and have been caught by the words you have spoken,

New Heart English Bible
You are trapped by the words of your mouth. You are ensnared with the words of your mouth.

Webster's Bible Translation
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth,

World English Bible
you are trapped by the words of your mouth; you are ensnared with the words of your mouth.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Have been snared with sayings of your mouth, "" Have been captured with sayings of your mouth,

Young's Literal Translation
Hast been snared with sayings of thy mouth, Hast been captured with sayings of thy mouth,

Smith's Literal Translation
Thou wert snared with the sayings of thy mouth, thou wert taken with the sayings of thy mouth.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Thou art ensnared with the words of thy mouth, and caught with thy own words.

Catholic Public Domain Version
then you are ensnared by the words of your own mouth, and taken captive by your own words.

New American Bible
You have been snared by the utterance of your lips, caught by the words of your mouth;

New Revised Standard Version
you are snared by the utterance of your lips, caught by the words of your mouth.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Then you are snared with the words of your mouth, you are caught with the words of your lips.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
You are trapped by the saying of your mouth and you are taken by the speech of your lips.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Thou art snared by the words of thy mouth, Thou art caught by the words of thy mouth--

Brenton Septuagint Translation
For a man's own lips become a strong snare to him, and he is caught with the lips of his own mouth.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Warnings Against Foolishness
1My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, 2if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth, 3then do this, my son, to free yourself, for you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go, humble yourself, and press your plea with your neighbor.…

Cross References
James 3:2
We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.

Matthew 12:37
For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Ecclesiastes 5:2-6
Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few. / As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words. / When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. ...

James 1:26
If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless.

Matthew 5:37
Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one.

Proverbs 18:21
Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 12:13
An evil man is trapped by his rebellious speech, but a righteous man escapes from trouble.

Proverbs 21:23
He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress.

Psalm 141:3
Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.

Ephesians 4:29
Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.

Colossians 4:6
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Proverbs 10:19
When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.

Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.

Proverbs 15:1-2
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. / The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly.

Proverbs 17:27-28
A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.


Treasury of Scripture

You are snared with the words of your mouth, you are taken with the words of your mouth.

Psalm 12:1-3
To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men…

Jump to Previous
Captured Caught Ensnared Lips Mouth Net Overcome Sayings Snared Trapped Utterance Words
Jump to Next
Captured Caught Ensnared Lips Mouth Net Overcome Sayings Snared Trapped Utterance Words
Proverbs 6
1. against indebtedness
6. idleness
12. and mischievousness
16. seven things detestable to God
20. the blessings of obedience
25. the mischief of unfaithfulness














if you have been trapped by the words of your lips
This phrase highlights the power and potential danger of spoken words. In biblical context, words are seen as powerful tools that can either build up or destroy (Proverbs 18:21). The imagery of being "trapped" suggests a situation where one's own speech has led to unintended consequences, reflecting the wisdom literature's emphasis on careful speech. Historically, in ancient Israel, oaths and promises were binding, and breaking them could lead to severe social and legal repercussions (Numbers 30:2). This phrase serves as a warning to be mindful of what one says, as words can create obligations that are difficult to escape.

ensnared by the words of your mouth
The term "ensnared" further emphasizes the idea of being caught or entangled by one's own speech. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of integrity and truthfulness (James 3:2-12). The mouth, as a source of speech, is often depicted in Scripture as a reflection of the heart's condition (Matthew 12:34). In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, verbal agreements were as binding as written contracts, and failing to fulfill them could damage one's reputation and relationships. This phrase underscores the importance of wisdom and discernment in communication, aligning with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the significance of every word spoken (Matthew 12:36-37).

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He wrote Proverbs to impart wisdom and understanding.

2. The Reader/Listener
The intended audience of Proverbs, often referred to as "my son" in the text, representing anyone seeking wisdom and guidance.

3. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written, where oral agreements and spoken words held significant weight.
Teaching Points
The Power of Words
Our words have the power to bind us, just as they can set us free. We must be mindful of what we say, as our speech can lead to unintended consequences.

Accountability in Speech
We are accountable for the words we speak. Just as Proverbs 6:2 warns about being ensnared by our words, we must take responsibility for our promises and statements.

Wisdom in Communication
Practicing wisdom in our communication involves thinking before speaking and ensuring our words align with truth and integrity.

Avoiding Rash Promises
Be cautious about making promises or commitments hastily. Consider the implications and ensure you can fulfill what you say.

Seeking Forgiveness and Reconciliation
If you find yourself trapped by your words, seek forgiveness and work towards reconciliation. Humility and honesty can restore relationships and trust.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 6:2?

2. How can we avoid being "ensnared by the words of your mouth"?

3. What practical steps help guard against making rash promises?

4. How does Proverbs 6:2 connect with James 3:5-6 about controlling speech?

5. In what ways can we seek God's wisdom before speaking?

6. How can accountability partners help us with our speech commitments?

7. How does Proverbs 6:2 relate to the power of words in shaping our lives?

8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 6:2?

9. How does Proverbs 6:2 reflect the broader themes of wisdom literature?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 6?

11. What wisdom and guidance does Proverbs offer for life?

12. What does the Bible teach about punctuality?

13. Why does Proverbs 6:16-19 say God hates certain behaviors if 'God is love' elsewhere (e.g., 1 John 4:8)?

14. Is it sinful to lie?
What Does Proverbs 6:2 Mean
If you have been trapped

“if you have been trapped…” (Proverbs 6:2)

• The setting is the previous verse, where someone has rashly guaranteed another’s debt. Such a promise can “trap” a person the moment it leaves the mouth (Proverbs 6:1; 11:15).

• Scripture presents this as a genuine, objective danger, not a mere feeling. Words create binding realities (Ecclesiastes 5:4-6).

• The verse assumes personal responsibility: no outside force is blamed. The snare is self-imposed, echoing 2 Samuel 15:31, where David recognizes how human words can overturn plans.


by the words of your lips

“…by the words of your lips…” (Proverbs 6:2)

• Speech is pictured as the direct cause of the trap. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).

• Lips reveal the heart (Matthew 12:34), so careless commitments expose an undisciplined heart (James 3:5-6).

• God’s standard never wavers: “Let your ‘Yes’ be yes and your ‘No,’ no” (Matthew 5:37). Rash pledges violate that standard.


ensnared

“…ensnared…” (Proverbs 6:2)

• A second image reinforces the first: the speaker is caught like prey in a hunter’s net (Psalm 91:3).

• The doubling signals certainty of consequence. Once spoken, words tighten around the one who uttered them (Proverbs 12:13).

• Deliverance requires humble action, as the next verses urge: “Go, humble yourself, and plead with your neighbor” (Proverbs 6:3-5).


by the words of your mouth

“…by the words of your mouth” (Proverbs 6:2)

• Repetition highlights accountability. The trap is not from another’s scheme but from “your mouth.” Compare “By your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).

• This exposes the folly of presumptuous speech—vows, guarantees, exaggerations—that bind the speaker (Proverbs 20:25; Acts 5:4).

• Wisdom therefore cultivates restraint: “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth” (Psalm 141:3).


summary

Proverbs 6:2 warns that a person’s own spoken commitments can fasten around him like a trap. Rash promises spring from undisciplined lips, tighten into unavoidable obligations, and leave no one to blame but the speaker. Scripture urges measured, truthful speech, for words carry real, binding power before both God and people.

Verse 2. - Thou art snared with the words of thy month, etc.; i.e. the inevitable consequence of an inconsiderate undertaking of suretyship is that you become entangled and involved by your own premises, and hampered by self-imposed obligations. The Authorized Version rightly regards this as the conclusion. So the Vulgate. Others, however, carry on the hypothesis, and insert im, "if:" "If thou art snared," etc.; but without warrant (Zockler, Wordsworth, Plumptre). The LXX. throws the thought into the form of a proverb, as "a strong net to a man are his own words." A distinction is to be drawn between the verbs rendered "entangled" and "taken;" the former, yakosh, signifying to be taken unwarily, off one's guard; the latter, lakad, referring, as before observed (cf. Proverbs 5:22), to the being stricken with the net. They are found in the same collocation in Isaiah 8:15, "Many among them shall be snared and taken." The repetition of the phrase, "with the words of thy mouth," is not unintentional or purely rhetorical. It is made, as Delitzsch observes, to bring with greater force to the mind that the entanglements in which the surety is involved are the result of his own indiscretion.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
if you have been trapped
נוֹקַ֥שְׁתָּ (nō·w·qaš·tā)
Verb - Nifal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 3369: To lay a bait or lure

by the words
בְאִמְרֵי־ (ḇə·’im·rê-)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 561: Something said

of your lips,
פִ֑יךָ (p̄î·ḵā)
Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 6310: The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to

ensnared
נִ֝לְכַּ֗דְתָּ (nil·kaḏ·tā)
Verb - Nifal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 3920: To catch, to capture, occupy, to choose, to cohere

by the words
בְּאִמְרֵי־ (bə·’im·rê-)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 561: Something said

of your mouth,
פִֽיךָ׃ (p̄î·ḵā)
Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 6310: The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to


Links
Proverbs 6:2 NIV
Proverbs 6:2 NLT
Proverbs 6:2 ESV
Proverbs 6:2 NASB
Proverbs 6:2 KJV

Proverbs 6:2 BibleApps.com
Proverbs 6:2 Biblia Paralela
Proverbs 6:2 Chinese Bible
Proverbs 6:2 French Bible
Proverbs 6:2 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 6:2 You are trapped by the words (Prov. Pro Pr)
Proverbs 6:1
Top of Page
Top of Page