Proverbs 11:15

Baoule (NYANMIƐN NDƐ'N 1998)

What Does This Mean?

Proverbs 11:15 tells us that if you promise to pay someone else's debt, you'll likely regret it. It also says that if you avoid making such promises, you'll stay out of trouble. The key message is to be cautious when guaranteeing debts for others.

Explained for Children

Imagine you promise to clean your friend's room if they can't do it. If they don't do it, you'll have to do all the work and might feel upset. This verse tells us it's better not to make those kinds of promises to strangers.

Historical Background

Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings attributed to King Solomon, written around 950 BC. It was intended to teach wisdom and ethics to people, especially young people, in Israel's cultural context.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this could apply to co-signing a loan for a friend or family member. If they can't repay, you're on the hook. It's better to think twice and not put yourself in that risky position.

Topics

wisdomprudencefinancial responsibilityfriendshiprisk managementmorality

Related Verses

Proverbs 6:1-5Ecclesiastes 5:2Romans 13:81 Timothy 5:8Psalm 37:21

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'surety' mean in this context?
Surety means being responsible for someone else's debt or obligation. It's like being a co-signer on a loan.
Why does the verse mention hating suretiship?
Hating suretiship means avoiding the risky practice of guaranteeing someone else's debts, which is a wise and safe approach.
Can this verse be applied to friendships?
Yes, it can be applied to friendships, suggesting that taking on someone else's responsibilities can lead to problems, so it's better to avoid it.
How does this relate to modern financial advice?
This verse aligns with modern financial advice, which often warns against co-signing loans or assuming financial risks for others.
Compare Proverbs 11:15 across all translations →