Proverbs 20:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 20:16
16 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 20 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, worship, grace. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 20:16
16 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
Analysis
This verse addresses surety (pledging collateral for another's debt). If someone is foolish enough to guarantee a stranger's debt, creditors should 'take his garment'—hold collateral to secure payment. The 'strange woman' likely refers to an adulteress or foreigner, emphasizing the foolishness of such entanglement. The principle: don't subsidize folly or wickedness through unwise financial commitment. While charity and generosity are virtues, enabling irresponsibility or sin is not. This wisdom protects both the guarantor (who shouldn't pledge what he cannot afford to lose) and society (which shouldn't enable vice). Believers must balance compassion with discernment, helping the genuinely needy while not enabling wickedness.
Historical Context
Ancient law allowed creditors to take cloaks as collateral but required returning them by night (Exodus 22:26-27). This proverb addresses the imprudence of guaranteeing debts for unreliable people.
Reflection
- Have you committed financially in ways that are unwise or enable another's irresponsibility?
- How do you balance generous helping with wise discernment about enabling sin?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 11:15, 27:13