Proverbs 11:15
He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.
Original Language Analysis
יֵ֭רוֹעַ
H7489
יֵ֭רוֹעַ
Strong's:
H7489
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
3 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
עָ֣רַב
He that is surety
H6148
עָ֣רַב
He that is surety
Strong's:
H6148
Word #:
4 of 8
to braid, i.e., intermix; technically, to traffic (as if by barter); also or give to be security (as a kind of exchange)
זָ֑ר
for a stranger
H2114
זָ֑ר
for a stranger
Strong's:
H2114
Word #:
5 of 8
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
Historical Context
Suretyship (guaranteeing another's debt) was common in ancient economy but risky - defaulted loans meant the guarantor paid. Proverbs repeatedly warns against such arrangements (6:1-5, 11:15, 17:18, 22:26).
Questions for Reflection
- Have you made financial commitments on others' behalf that were unwise?
- How do you balance generosity with prudent financial stewardship?
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Analysis & Commentary
He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it, and he that hates suretyship is sure. Becoming financial guarantor for strangers (zarim - foreigners, unknown persons) brings trouble. Hating such arrangements provides security. This practical wisdom warns against reckless financial commitments. While generosity is virtuous, wisdom requires discernment - helping those you don't know well through risky guarantees often ends badly.