Proverbs 20:16

Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

Proverbs 20:16 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is a collection of wisdom sayings, many from King Solomon, offering practical guidance for righteous living. This verse addresses financial caution, specifically when someone promises to pay another person’s debt. In ancient Israel, a garment often served as a pledge for a loan. If the borrower failed to repay, the lender could keep the garment as security.

Meaning

The verse instructs the lender to take the garment of anyone who foolishly stands as surety for a stranger, and to take a pledge from such a person for a strange woman. The word “strange” points to someone whose character and reliability are unknown. This is not a command to be harsh but a practical safeguard. The person who makes a risky promise must bear the result of that choice. The creditor is right to protect his own interests by holding collateral.

The mention of a “strange woman” adds a moral warning. It may refer to a person of loose morals or to someone involved in an unwise relationship. Entangling oneself with such a person often leads to loss. The verse warns against assuming liability for people we do not truly know.

Biblical connections

Other Proverbs give the same warning about cosigning. Proverbs 6:1-5 urges a person who has become surety to free himself quickly. Proverbs 11:15 and 17:18 also warn that putting up security for a stranger brings trouble. These verses together teach that unwise financial promises can trap a person. They do not forbid helping others, but they insist on prudence and clear knowledge of the borrower.

Application

Before agreeing to pay another person’s debt, carefully examine the situation. Ask whether you know the person well and whether they are trustworthy. Consider the risk of loss. If you have already made such a promise, take steps to protect yourself, such as asking for collateral. This is not selfishness; it is wise stewardship of what God has given you.

Also be careful in your relationships. Choose companions who share your values and who act with honesty. Avoid close ties with those who may lead you into foolish commitments. The principle here is personal responsibility. When you make a promise, be ready to keep it. When you are asked to guarantee a debt, weigh the cost before you speak.

Reflection

This verse calls for honesty about our limits. We cannot rescue everyone, and we should not try to do so with money we cannot afford to lose. Wisdom begins with knowing whom we trust and why. God honours those who act with discernment and who keep their word. Let this proverb shape your decisions, so that your generosity is guided by wisdom and not by impulse.