Old Testament
Proverbs 22:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse advises against becoming a guarantor for someone else's debts, which can lead to financial trouble.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Do not be one of those who shake hands in pledge, or those who put up security for debts.
Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse advises against becoming a guarantor for someone else's debts, which can lead to financial trouble. In ancient times, shaking hands was a way to seal an agreement, often involving a promise to pay if the borrower defaulted. The wisdom here is to avoid entangling oneself in risky financial commitments that could jeopardize your own stability. It highlights the importance of being cautious with financial agreements and understanding the potential consequences of backing someone else's obligations. By not becoming a surety, one protects their own financial health and avoids unnecessary stress that can arise from others' debts. This principle encourages individuals to be wise and prudent in their financial dealings, ensuring they do not take on burdens that could lead to hardship. Explore related anxiety.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 22:26 to your life
To apply this wisdom, carefully consider any financial commitments you make, especially those involving others. Before co-signing loans or guaranteeing debts, assess your own financial situation and the reliability of the person asking for help. Protect your financial future by being prudent and informed.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 22:26 mean?
Proverbs 22:26 advises against becoming a guarantor for someone else's debts. It warns that such commitments can lead to financial trouble and emphasizes the importance of being cautious with financial agreements.
What is the meaning of 'shake hands in pledge' in Proverbs 22:26?
'Shake hands in pledge' refers to sealing an agreement, often by promising to pay if the borrower defaults. This phrase highlights the risk of entangling oneself in another person's financial obligations.
How can I apply the advice from Proverbs 22:26 in my life?
To apply this advice, carefully evaluate any financial commitments you consider, especially those involving others. Before co-signing loans, assess your own financial situation and the reliability of the person asking for help.
What themes are present in Proverbs 22:26?
The themes in Proverbs 22:26 include financial responsibility, caution in agreements, avoiding debt, wisdom in commitments, and personal accountability.

The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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