Proverbs 20:25
It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.
Original Language Analysis
מוֹקֵ֣שׁ
It is a snare
H4170
מוֹקֵ֣שׁ
It is a snare
Strong's:
H4170
Word #:
1 of 7
a noose (for catching animals) (literally or figuratively); by implication, a hook (for the nose)
אָ֭דָם
to the man
H120
אָ֭דָם
to the man
Strong's:
H120
Word #:
2 of 7
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
קֹ֑דֶשׁ
that which is holy
H6944
קֹ֑דֶשׁ
that which is holy
Strong's:
H6944
Word #:
4 of 7
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
וְאַחַ֖ר
and after
H310
וְאַחַ֖ר
and after
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
Cross References
Matthew 5:33Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:Leviticus 5:15If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD; then he shall bring for his trespass unto the LORD a ram without blemish out of the flocks, with thy estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering:
Historical Context
Israelites commonly made vows—dedicating possessions, children (Samuel), or themselves (Nazirite vow) to God. The law prescribed severe penalties for breaking vows, emphasizing their binding nature.
Questions for Reflection
- Have you made commitments to God or others that you're now neglecting?
- How can you cultivate more careful speech and faithful follow-through on commitments?
Analysis & Commentary
This warns against rash religious vows. To 'devour that which is holy' means to consecrate something to God hastily, then after making the vow ('after vows to make inquiry') reconsider whether you can fulfill it. Such rashness treats sacred commitments carelessly. Vows to God must be taken seriously and kept faithfully (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). Impulsive dedication that one later regrets demonstrates irreverence toward God and His worship. Better not to vow than to vow and break it. This applies beyond formal religious vows to all commitments made before God—promises, dedications, oaths. Let your yes be yes and your no be no, speaking with careful integrity rather than emotional impulse.