Proverbs 27:13

Take the garment of him who posts security for a stranger; get collateral if it is for a foreigner.

Study Bible

Take the garment
In ancient times, a person's garment was not just clothing but also a symbol of their identity and social status. The Hebrew word for "garment" here is "beged," which can also imply treachery or deceit. This phrase suggests a protective measure, emphasizing the importance of securing oneself against potential loss. The act of taking a garment as collateral was a common practice, serving as a tangible assurance of a person's commitment or debt. It reflects the wisdom of being cautious and ensuring one's security in financial dealings.

of him who posts security
The phrase "posts security" refers to the act of guaranteeing another's debt or obligation. The Hebrew term "arab" means to pledge or to be surety. This was a serious commitment, often involving significant risk. In the biblical context, becoming a guarantor for someone else was discouraged unless one was fully prepared to bear the consequences. This highlights the importance of prudence and discernment in financial and relational commitments, urging believers to consider the potential repercussions of their promises.

for a stranger
The term "stranger" in Hebrew is "zar," which can mean foreigner or outsider. This indicates someone with whom there is no established relationship or trust. The Bible often warns against making hasty commitments to those who are not well-known or trustworthy. This serves as a reminder to exercise caution and wisdom in dealings with those outside one's immediate community or circle of trust, emphasizing the need for discernment in interactions with unfamiliar individuals.

get collateral
The instruction to "get collateral" underscores the importance of securing a guarantee when entering into agreements, especially with those who may not be reliable. The Hebrew word "chavol" means to bind or pledge, indicating a formal agreement. This reflects a principle of wise stewardship, ensuring that one's resources and responsibilities are protected. It encourages believers to be diligent and prudent in their financial dealings, safeguarding against potential losses.

if it is for a wayward woman
The phrase "wayward woman" refers to someone who is unfaithful or unreliable. The Hebrew term "nokriyah" can imply foreignness or estrangement, often associated with moral or spiritual waywardness. This serves as a caution against entanglements with those who may lead one astray or cause harm. It highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and discernment in relationships, avoiding associations that could compromise one's values or well-being. This wisdom encourages believers to seek relationships that are grounded in faithfulness and trust.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Guarantor
This is the person who offers security or a pledge for another's debt. In ancient times, this often involved offering one's garment as collateral.

2. The Stranger
This refers to someone outside the immediate community or family, often implying a lack of trust or knowledge about the person's character.

3. The Wayward Woman
This term can refer to someone who is unfaithful or unreliable, often used in Proverbs to symbolize folly or moral danger.

4. The Act of Taking Collateral
This is a practical action advised to protect oneself from potential loss due to another's unreliability.

5. Ancient Israelite Society
The cultural and legal context in which these financial transactions and social norms were practiced.

Teaching Points

Wisdom in Financial Dealings
The verse teaches the importance of being prudent and cautious in financial matters, especially when dealing with those who are not well-known or trustworthy.

Understanding Collateral
Taking collateral is a practical step to protect oneself from potential loss. It reflects a broader biblical principle of stewardship and responsibility.

Discernment in Relationships
The mention of a "wayward woman" serves as a metaphor for the need to discern character and intentions in relationships, whether personal or financial.

Avoiding Unnecessary Risk
The proverb advises against taking on unnecessary risk, especially when it involves others who may not have a vested interest in your well-being.

Moral and Ethical Responsibility
While the verse advises taking collateral, it also implies a moral responsibility to act justly and fairly in all dealings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Proverbs 27:13 teach us about the importance of discernment in financial transactions?

2. How can the principle of taking collateral be applied in modern financial practices, such as lending or co-signing loans?

3. In what ways does the concept of a "wayward woman" in this verse serve as a warning for other areas of life beyond financial dealings?

4. How do the teachings in Proverbs 27:13 align with Jesus' teachings on financial responsibility and relationships in the New Testament?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a decision about offering or requiring collateral. How did biblical principles guide your decision-making process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 6:1-5
This passage also warns against becoming surety for a neighbor, emphasizing the importance of freeing oneself from such obligations.

Exodus 22:26-27
These verses provide laws about taking a neighbor's cloak as a pledge, highlighting the importance of returning it by evening, which underscores the seriousness of taking collateral.

Matthew 5:25-26
Jesus speaks about settling matters quickly with an adversary, which can be related to the wisdom of avoiding entanglements in financial disputes.