Proverbs 20:25

KJV

¶ [It is] a snare to the man [who] devoureth [that which is] holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is a snare {H4170} to the man {H120} who devoureth {H3216} that which is holy {H6944}, and after {H310} vows {H5088} to make enquiry {H1239}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is a snare to dedicate a gift to God rashly and reflect on the vows only afterwards.

Berean Standard Bible

It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows.

American Standard Version

It is a snare to a man rashly to say, It is holy, And after vows to make inquiry.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 20:25 delivers a solemn warning against two related forms of spiritual deception and irreverence: the casual or self-serving appropriation of what has been consecrated to God, and the attempt to renege on or reconsider a sacred vow once it has been made. The proverb identifies such actions as a "snare," indicating that they lead to detrimental consequences for the individual, highlighting the critical importance of integrity, reverence for the divine, and faithfulness in all commitments made before God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 20 stands within the larger collection of Solomonic wisdom, specifically among the "Sayings of the Wise" (chapters 10-22). This chapter, like many others in Proverbs, presents a series of independent, often contrasting, maxims that offer practical guidance for righteous living. Proverbs 20:25 immediately follows a verse (Proverbs 20:24) that speaks of the Lord directing a man's steps, implying that human plans are subject to divine oversight. This juxtaposition subtly reinforces the idea that attempts to manipulate or withdraw from commitments made to God are futile and dangerous. The proverb's placement emphasizes the deep wisdom required in handling sacred obligations, contrasting with the folly of those who act impulsively or deceitfully regarding holy things and vows.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the concepts of "holy" (Hebrew: *qodesh*) and "vows" (Hebrew: *nedarim*) were foundational to their covenant relationship with Yahweh. "Holy" referred to anything set apart for God's exclusive use, whether it be offerings, tithes, firstfruits, dedicated persons, or sacred spaces like the tabernacle or temple. To "devour" or treat as common that which was holy was a profound act of sacrilege, undermining the very distinction between the sacred and the profane, and thus disrespecting God's ownership and holiness. Vows were solemn, binding promises made to God, often in times of distress, thanksgiving, or specific dedication. Mosaic Law, as detailed in [Numbers 30](/numbers/30 "Numbers 30 - Laws Concerning Vows") and [Deuteronomy 23:21-23](/deuteronomy/23-21 "Deuteronomy 23:21-23 - On Keeping Vows"), emphasized their inviolable nature. Breaking a vow was not merely a breach of human promise but a direct affront to God, who was the recipient and witness of the vow.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 20:25 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **reverence for God and His holiness**. It warns against the casual or exploitative treatment of sacred things, reinforcing the principle that God's presence and possessions demand utmost respect. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **integrity and faithfulness in speech and commitments**. The proverb teaches that words, especially those spoken as vows to God, carry immense weight and must be honored. This aligns with wisdom literature's broader emphasis on the power of the tongue and the importance of truthful living, as seen in [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips are an Abomination"). Finally, the mention of a "snare" introduces the theme of **consequences for unrighteous actions**. It serves as a stark reminder that disrespect for God's holiness and a lack of integrity in vows inevitably lead to negative, often unforeseen, spiritual and practical repercussions, echoing warnings found in [Proverbs 29:6](/proverbs/29-6 "Proverbs 29:6 - The Snare of Transgression").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Snare (Hebrew, _môwqêsh'_):** This term refers to a noose or trap, typically used for catching animals. Figuratively, it denotes a dangerous situation or predicament that one falls into unexpectedly, often due to their own folly or sin. In this context, the "snare" is the inevitable negative consequence—spiritual, social, or personal—that results from treating holy things irreverently or breaking vows. It implies a hidden danger that, once triggered, is difficult to escape.
* **Devoureth (Hebrew, _yâlaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to blurt or utter inconsiderately," but here translated as "devoureth." This suggests a hasty, thoughtless, or even greedy consumption or appropriation. When applied to "that which is holy," it implies treating sacred offerings or dedicated items as common property, consuming them for personal gain without proper respect for their consecrated status. It speaks to a lack of reverence and a self-serving attitude towards God's possessions.
* **Enquiry (Hebrew, _bâqar'_):** A primitive root meaning "to plough, or break forth," but figuratively "to inspect, admire, care for, consider," and most relevantly here, "to make inquiry" or "search." In the context of "after vows to make enquiry," it signifies questioning, reconsidering, or seeking a way out of a vow already solemnly made to God. This action reveals regret, a desire to retract, or an attempt to find a loophole, indicating a lack of integrity and commitment to one's word before the Divine.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"It is a snare to the man":** This opening clause immediately establishes the consequence of the actions described. The term "snare" (môwqêsh) vividly portrays a trap, a hidden danger that, once sprung, leads to inevitable difficulty, trouble, or ruin. It is not merely a warning of potential harm but a declaration of the inherent danger in such conduct. The focus is on the individual ("the man") who falls into this trap, emphasizing personal accountability.
* **"[who] devoureth [that which is] holy":** This describes the first specific action that leads to the snare. To "devour" (yâlaʻ) implies a disrespectful, hasty, or greedy consumption of something sacred. "That which is holy" (qôdesh) refers to anything consecrated, set apart, or dedicated exclusively for God's use or worship, such as offerings, tithes, or dedicated persons/objects. This act signifies a profound lack of reverence for God's ownership and the sacred distinction between the divine and the common, treating God's portion as one's own for personal gain.
* **"and after vows to make enquiry":** This describes the second, parallel action. "Vows" (neder) were solemn, binding promises made to God. To "make enquiry" (bâqar) after such a vow means to scrutinize, question, or seek a way to retract or escape from a commitment already made. This indicates a lack of integrity, an attempt to renege on one's word, or a desire to reclaim what was promised to God, often out of regret or changed circumstances. Both actions—disrespecting the holy and breaking vows—are presented as equally perilous.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 20:25 employs several effective **literary devices** to convey its warning. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where the consequence of irreverent actions is likened to a "snare." This vivid image immediately evokes a sense of danger, entrapment, and unforeseen negative outcomes, making the abstract concept of divine displeasure tangible and relatable. The phrase "devoureth that which is holy" uses **Figurative Language** to describe an act of sacrilege; it's not literal consumption but a disrespectful appropriation or misuse of consecrated items. This implies a greedy, thoughtless, and self-serving attitude. Furthermore, the proverb utilizes **Parallelism** in its structure, presenting two distinct but ethically related actions—disrespecting holy things and reneging on vows—both leading to the same "snare." This reinforces the interconnectedness of reverence and integrity in one's spiritual life. The concise, aphoristic nature of the verse itself is characteristic of the **Proverbial Form**, designed for memorability and impactful moral instruction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 20:25 profoundly underscores the biblical emphasis on the sanctity of God's name, His possessions, and the integrity of human speech, especially when directed towards Him. It reveals that God takes seriously both our reverence for what belongs to Him and our faithfulness to the promises we make. The "snare" is a theological consequence, demonstrating that actions of sacrilege or deceit in spiritual matters do not go unpunished, but rather lead to divine disfavor or self-inflicted hardship. This proverb serves as a timeless reminder that our relationship with God is founded on truth, honor, and sincere commitment, not on casual disregard or manipulative bargaining.

* [Numbers 30:2](/numbers/30-2 "Numbers 30:2 - The Binding Nature of Vows")
* [Ecclesiastes 5:4-5](/ecclesiastes/5-4 "Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 - Do Not Delay in Fulfilling Vows")
* [Malachi 3:8](/malachi/3-8 "Malachi 3:8 - Robbing God in Tithes and Offerings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 20:25 challenges us to examine the sincerity and integrity of our spiritual lives. It calls us to a profound reverence for God, not just in grand gestures, but in the everyday handling of resources, time, and commitments that we acknowledge as His. Are we treating our tithes and offerings, our dedicated talents, or our promised service with the respect due to "holy" things, or are we "devouring" them for our own convenience or gain? Furthermore, the proverb compels us to weigh our words carefully, especially those spoken in prayer, in moments of desperation, or in covenant with God. Do we make vows lightly, only to seek an "enquiry" or loophole when the cost becomes inconvenient? This verse is a powerful call to live with unwavering integrity before God, recognizing that true faith is demonstrated not just in belief, but in consistent and honorable action.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be "devouring that which is holy" by treating consecrated resources or time as common?**
* **Have I made vows or commitments to God that I have since neglected or sought to retract? What steps can I take to honor them?**
* **How does the concept of a "snare" motivate me to live with greater reverence and integrity in my spiritual walk?**
* **What does this proverb teach me about the character of God and His expectation of faithfulness from His people?**

### FAQ
**What does "devoureth that which is holy" mean in a modern context?**

Answer: In a modern context, "devouring that which is holy" refers to treating anything set apart for God's purposes as common or for personal gain, rather than with reverence. This could include misusing church funds, neglecting dedicated time for worship or service, failing to honor financial commitments (like tithes and offerings) to God's work, or treating spiritual gifts as personal assets rather than divine trusts. It's about a lack of respect for God's ownership and the sacred nature of things dedicated to Him.

**Why is it a "snare" to make enquiry after vows?**

Answer: It is a "snare" because seeking to renege on a vow made to God leads to spiritual and often practical difficulties. A vow is a solemn promise made before God, and breaking it demonstrates a lack of integrity, disrespect for God's holiness, and a casual attitude toward one's word. Such actions can lead to a loss of divine favor, a troubled conscience, a breakdown of trust (both with God and others), and unforeseen negative consequences, trapping the individual in a cycle of regret or spiritual barrenness. The Bible consistently warns against making vows lightly and emphasizes the importance of fulfilling them, as seen in [Ecclesiastes 5:4-5](/ecclesiastes/5-4 "Do Not Delay in Fulfilling Vows").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 20:25 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound counterpoint in Jesus Christ. While the proverb warns against the human tendency to disrespect the holy and renege on vows, Christ perfectly embodies reverence and faithfulness. He is the ultimate "holy" one, consecrated entirely to God's will, who never "devoured" or misused anything belonging to the Father, but rather perfectly honored Him in all things ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does What Pleases the Father")). Furthermore, Jesus' entire life was a perfect "vow" of obedience to the Father, culminating in His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. He never sought to "make enquiry" or find a way out of His divine mission, even when faced with immense suffering ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane")). His faithfulness stands in stark contrast to the human failing described in the proverb. Through Christ, believers are not only forgiven for their past failures to honor God or keep vows, but are also empowered by His Spirit to live lives of integrity and reverence, reflecting His own perfect obedience. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled every divine expectation, becoming our righteousness and enabling us to approach God with true reverence and a sincere heart, free from the "snare" of our own broken promises and disrespect for the sacred.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ecclesiastes 5:4

¶ When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for [he hath] no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.

Ecclesiastes 5:6

Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it [was] an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?

Matthew 5:33

¶ Again, 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:

Numbers 30:2

If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.

Numbers 30:16

These [are] the statutes, which the LORD commanded Moses, between a man and his wife, between the father and his daughter, [being yet] in her youth in her father's house.

Leviticus 5:15

If 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:

Malachi 3:8

Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.