Old Testament

Proverbs 27:13

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 caution in financial dealings, particularly when it comes to guaranteeing loans for others.

Author
Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
Written
Around 950-700 BC
Genre
Wisdom literature
Original Audience
Young people and all seeking wisdom
CBTClear Bible Translation

Take the garment of someone who has put up security for a stranger, and hold it as a pledge for a foreign woman.

KJVKing James Version

Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse advises caution in financial dealings, particularly when it comes to guaranteeing loans for others. It suggests that if someone has pledged their garment as security for a stranger, it is wise to take that garment as a pledge for a foreign woman. This implies that one should be careful about the commitments they make on behalf of others, especially when it involves unknown or unreliable parties. The underlying message is about the risks of being overly trusting or taking on responsibilities that could lead to loss or trouble. It highlights the importance of being prudent and discerning in relationships and financial matters, ensuring that one does not jeopardize their own security for someone else's obligations. Explore related anxiety.

Related topics

anxiety, fear, grief

How to apply Proverbs 27:13 to your life

In our daily lives, we should be careful about co-signing loans or making financial commitments for others. It's important to assess the reliability of the person and the situation before getting involved. Protecting our own resources and being wise in our decisions can prevent future complications.

Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Proverbs 27:13 mean?

Proverbs 27:13 advises caution in financial dealings, particularly when guaranteeing loans for others. It suggests that if someone has pledged their garment as security for a stranger, it is wise to take that garment as a pledge for a foreign woman, highlighting the risks of being overly trusting.

What is the meaning of 'surety for a stranger' in Proverbs 27:13?

'Surety for a stranger' refers to the act of guaranteeing a loan or obligation for someone you do not know well. This verse warns against the potential dangers of such commitments, emphasizing the need for discernment.

How can I apply Proverbs 27:13 in my life?

You can apply Proverbs 27:13 by being careful when co-signing loans or making financial commitments for others. Always assess the reliability of the person and the situation before getting involved to protect your own resources.

What themes are present in Proverbs 27:13?

The themes in Proverbs 27:13 include caution in financial dealings, trust and responsibility, the risks of surety, discernment in relationships, and the consequences of poor choices.

The Book of Proverbs
Book Summary

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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