Proverbs 17:18 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

A person who lacks wisdom makes promises by shaking hands and agrees to be responsible for their friend's debts.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse warns that it's unwise to promise to pay someone else's debts or obligations without carefully thinking it through first.

📚 Historical Context

In ancient times, 'striking hands' was a formal way of making a binding agreement or covenant, similar to our handshake today. Being 'surety' meant becoming legally responsible for another person's debt - if they couldn't pay, you would have to. This was a serious financial commitment that could lead to poverty or slavery if the original debtor defaulted.

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Let's hold tight to what we say we believe and not let doubt shake us loose — because the one who made us these promises always keeps his word.

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Here's what the Lord says: Just wait a little bit longer, and I'm going to shake everything — the heavens, the earth, the oceans, even the dry ground.

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