TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 20:25.
Two things, by which God is greatly affronted, men are here said to be ensnared by, and entangled not only in guilt, but in trouble and ruin at length: - 1. Sacrilege, men's alienating holy things and converting them to their own use, which is here called devouring them. What is devoted in any way to the service and honour of God, for the support of religion and divine worship or the relief of the poor, ought to be conscientiously preserved to the purposes designed; and those that directly or indirectly embezzle it, or defeat the purpose for which it was given, will have a great deal to answer for. Will a man rob God in tithes and offerings? Mal 3:8. Those that hurry over religious offices (their praying and preaching) and huddle them up in haste, as being impatient to get done, may be said to devour that which is holy. 2. Covenant-breaking. It is a snare to a man, after he has made vows to God, to enquire how he may evade them or get dispensed with, and to contrive excuses for the violating of them. If the matter of them was doubtful, and the expressions were ambiguous, that was his fault; he should have made them with more caution and consideration, for it will involve his conscience (if it be tender) in great perplexities, if he be to enquire concerning them afterwards (Ecc 5:6); for, when we have opened our mouth to the Lord, it is too late to think of going back, Act 5:4.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
It is ruin for a man to devour the holy, etc. Since it is a sin to harm any man, how much more so when it is he who has sinned? How forty men in the Acts of the Apostles vowed that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul; and pagans often, as we read, devoted the blood of Christians to their gods. This verse the ancient edition set in another sense, saying: It is a snare for a man to dedicate something quickly of his own; afterwards, when he has made a vow, he repents. And because to both those who, to complete their vows, persecute the holy, eternal damnation remains, it is rightly added:
Continue studying Proverbs 20:25 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
Proverbs 20:25 delivers a profound warning against two interconnected forms of spiritual irreverence and deception: the casual or self-serving appropriation of that which 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 inevitably lead to detrimental consequences for the individual, thereby underscoring the critical importance of integrity, profound reverence for the divine, and unwavering faithfulness in all commitments made before God.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 20 is situated within the broader collection of Solomonic wisdom, specifically among the "Sayings of the Wise" (chapters 10-22). This chapter, characteristic of Proverbs, presents a series of independent, often contrasting, maxims that offer practical guidance for righteous living in various aspects of life. Proverbs 20:25 immediately follows Proverbs 20:24, which speaks of the Lord directing a man's steps and the inability of humans to understand their own way. This juxtaposition subtly reinforces the idea that attempts to manipulate or withdraw from commitments made to God are not only futile but also dangerous, as they disregard divine sovereignty and wisdom. The proverb's placement emphasizes the deep wisdom required in handling sacred obligations, contrasting sharply 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 absolutely 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 (like Nazirites), or sacred spaces such as the tabernacle or temple. To "devour" or treat as common that which was holy was a profound act of sacrilege, directly undermining the distinction between the sacred and the profane, and thus disrespecting God's ownership and inherent holiness. Vows were solemn, binding promises made to God, often in times of distress, thanksgiving, or specific dedication. Mosaic Law, as extensively detailed in Numbers 30 and Deuteronomy 23:21-23, 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 divine 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 and distinction. Secondly, it highlights the theme of integrity and faithfulness in speech and commitments. The proverb teaches that words, especially those spoken as solemn vows to God, carry immense weight and must be honored without reservation. 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. Finally, the mention of a "snare" introduces the potent 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.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term, derived from a root meaning "to lay a trap," 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, leading to trouble or ruin.
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 profound lack of reverence and a self-serving attitude towards God's possessions, effectively blurring the sacred-profane distinction.
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, scrutinizing, 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 fundamental 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 severe 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 for their choices.
"[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 or convenience.
"and after vows to make enquiry"
This describes the second, parallel action, equally perilous. "Vows" (neder) were solemn, binding promises made directly 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, changed circumstances, or a desire to avoid the cost. Both actions—disrespecting the holy and breaking vows—are presented as equally perilous paths leading to the "snare."
Literary Devices
Proverbs 20:25 employs several effective literary devices to convey its solemn warning. The most prominent is Metaphor, where the consequence of irreverent actions is powerfully 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 or self-inflicted trouble tangible and relatable. The phrase "devoureth that which is holy" utilizes Figurative Language to describe an act of sacrilege; it's not literal consumption but a disrespectful appropriation, misuse, or casual treatment of consecrated items. This implies a greedy, thoughtless, and self-serving attitude that disregards the sacred. 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, self-inflicted hardship, or a broken relationship with God. 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. It calls us to recognize God's absolute holiness and our responsibility to respond with genuine reverence and unwavering integrity.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 20:25 challenges us to examine the sincerity and integrity of our spiritual lives with profound introspection. It calls us to a deep and abiding reverence for God, not just in grand, public gestures, but in the quiet, everyday handling of resources, time, talents, and commitments that we acknowledge as His. Are we treating our tithes and offerings, our dedicated time for worship or service, or our promised talents with the respect due to "holy" things, or are we "devouring" them for our own convenience, comfort, 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, perhaps in a moment of emotional fervor, only to seek an "enquiry" or loophole when the cost becomes inconvenient or the path challenging? This verse is a powerful call to live with unwavering integrity before God, recognizing that true faith is demonstrated not just in intellectual assent or emotional experience, but in consistent, honorable, and reverent action that reflects His holiness and our commitment.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "devoureth that which is holy" mean in a modern context?
In a modern context, "devouring that which is holy" refers to treating anything set apart for God's purposes as common, for personal gain, or with a lack of 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 profound lack of respect for God's ownership and the sacred nature of things dedicated to Him, blurring the distinction between the sacred and the profane.
Why is it a "snare" to make enquiry after vows?
It is a "snare" because seeking to renege on a vow made to God leads to spiritual and often practical difficulties, trapping the individual in negative consequences. 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 repercussions, 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.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 20:25 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb warns against the human tendency to disrespect the holy and renege on vows, Christ perfectly embodies reverence and unwavering 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, always doing what pleased Him (John 8:29). 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 and the agony of Gethsemane (Luke 22:42; Philippians 2:8). His perfect 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 (2 Corinthians 5:17). 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 (Hebrews 10:5-10).