Topical Bible: The Hands: Suretiship Entered Into by Striking

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In biblical times, the act of striking hands was a customary gesture that signified the entering into a surety or pledge. This practice is akin to what modern society might recognize as a handshake agreement, symbolizing a binding commitment between parties. The Bible provides several references to this practice, often cautioning against the potential pitfalls of becoming surety for another.

The Book of Proverbs, known for its wisdom literature, frequently addresses the concept of suretyship. Proverbs 6:1-2 warns, "My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth." Here, the act of striking hands is directly associated with the act of becoming a guarantor for another's debt or obligation, highlighting the potential risks involved.

Similarly, Proverbs 17:18 states, "A man lacking judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor." This verse underscores the notion that entering into such agreements without careful consideration is a sign of imprudence. The biblical text suggests that one should exercise discernment and wisdom before committing to suretyship, as it can lead to unforeseen consequences and personal liability.

The cultural context of the ancient Near East provides further insight into this practice. Striking hands was not merely a casual gesture but a formalized act that carried legal and social weight. It was a public declaration of one's willingness to assume responsibility for another's obligations, often involving financial or legal repercussions.

In the broader biblical narrative, the concept of suretyship is also explored through the lens of personal responsibility and the importance of maintaining one's integrity. Proverbs 22:26-27 advises, "Do not be one who gives pledges, who puts up security for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should your bed be taken from under you?" This passage serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential personal cost of entering into such agreements without the means to fulfill them.

The New Testament, while not directly addressing the act of striking hands, continues to emphasize the importance of honesty and integrity in one's dealings. Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, advocate for straightforward communication: "Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'" (Matthew 5:37). This principle aligns with the Old Testament's warnings against rash or ill-considered commitments.

In summary, the biblical portrayal of striking hands as a form of suretyship serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of wisdom, discernment, and integrity in one's commitments. The act, while culturally specific to the ancient world, carries enduring lessons for contemporary believers regarding the weight of one's word and the responsibilities that accompany it.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 17:3
Lay down now, put me in a surety with you; who is he that will strike hands with me?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 6:1
My son, if you be surety for your friend, if you have stricken your hand with a stranger,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 17:18
A man void of understanding strikes hands, and becomes surety in the presence of his friend.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 22:26
Be not you one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... The language is bold and striking, but it exhibits the unvarnished ... Ephraim; but God,
like Jacob, puts his hands across, and ... "Two men went up into the temple to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm

The Doctrine
... conditions of the new covenant.4. The suretiship of Christ.5 ... it, then they fall into
the hands of this ... on purpose to discover sin, "The law entered," saith the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the doctrine.htm