Proverbs 29:25

Translation
King James Version
¶ The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
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KJV (with Strong's)
The fear H2731 of man H120 bringeth H5414 a snare H4170: but whoso putteth his trust H982 in the LORD H3068 shall be safe H7682.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Fearing human beings is a snare; but he who trusts in ADONAI will be raised high [above danger].
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Berean Standard Bible
The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.
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American Standard Version
The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.
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World English Bible Messianic
The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the LORD is kept safe.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
The feare of man bringeth a snare: but he that trusteth in the Lord, shalbe exalted.
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Young's Literal Translation
Fear of man causeth a snare, And the confident in Jehovah is set on high.
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See also
Psalms 118:8Luke 12:4Proverbs 18:10Psalms 91:14Proverbs 16:20John 12:42John 12:43
In the KJVVerse 17,250 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Proverbs 29:25 presents a profound antithesis, revealing that succumbing to the fear of human opinion or disapproval leads to spiritual and practical entrapment, akin to a hunter's snare. Conversely, the verse declares that those who place their complete and unwavering trust in the Lord will experience profound security and divine elevation, finding an unshakable refuge from life's dangers and the anxieties driven by human judgment. This wisdom saying underscores a fundamental choice between living enslaved by external pressures and living liberated by confident reliance on God.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Proverbs 29:25 is situated within the broader collection of wisdom literature, specifically within the "Sayings of Solomon" (Proverbs 25-29), which often employs antithetical parallelism to highlight contrasting paths and their outcomes. This verse exemplifies a core theme of Proverbs: the stark difference between the way of wisdom (rooted in the fear of the Lord) and the way of folly (often driven by self-reliance or external pressures). The immediate context of Proverbs 29 addresses various aspects of righteous and wicked leadership, the importance of instruction, and the consequences of pride versus humility. The verse's emphasis on trust in the Lord aligns with the book's consistent call to prioritize divine wisdom over human cunning or social approval, echoing the foundational principle articulated in Proverbs 1:7.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, communal identity and social standing were paramount. The opinion of the community, elders, and leaders held significant sway, and ostracization or disapproval could have severe practical and psychological consequences. This made the "fear of man" a potent force, often compelling individuals to conform to societal expectations, even at the expense of moral or spiritual integrity. The wisdom tradition, however, consistently sought to reorient the individual's ultimate allegiance from human authority or social pressure to the singular authority of Yahweh. The concept of "trust" (bâṭach) in the Lord was not merely an intellectual assent but a profound existential reliance, a counter-cultural act in a world where security was often sought in alliances, wealth, or human power.
  • Key Themes: The central theme is the dichotomy between human fear and divine trust. The "fear of man" is portrayed as a snare, a metaphorical trap that restricts freedom, compromises integrity, and leads to spiritual downfall. This fear can manifest as seeking human approval, avoiding confrontation, or compromising one's convictions to maintain social standing. In stark contrast, "trust in the LORD" is presented as the pathway to safety and security. This trust implies a confident reliance on God's character, power, and faithfulness, liberating one from the anxieties and compromises inherent in fearing humans. This theme resonates throughout the Old Testament, where God is consistently portrayed as a refuge and strong tower for those who trust Him, in contrast to the futility of trusting in human strength or chariots. The book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the wisdom that comes from God with the folly of human-centered living, often highlighting the ultimate outcomes of each path, as seen in passages like Proverbs 14:26-27.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • fear (Hebrew, chărâdâh', H2731): This term (H2731) denotes a trembling, quaking, or anxiety. It's not merely a respectful awe but a debilitating dread or apprehension concerning what others think, say, or do. In this context, it refers to the paralyzing effect of human opinion, disapproval, or potential harm, leading one to compromise or act against conviction.
  • snare (Hebrew, môwqêsh', H4170): This word (H4170) literally means a noose or a trap set for animals. Figuratively, it represents a dangerous entanglement, a pitfall, or a stumbling block that captures, restricts, and potentially destroys. The "fear of man" is thus depicted as an active agent that "brings" (H5414, nâthan' - to give, put, bring forth) one into such a perilous situation.
  • trust (Hebrew, bâṭach', H982): This term (H982) signifies a deep, confident reliance and security, a leaning on something or someone for support. It implies being bold and sure, hiding for refuge not in oneself or others, but in the object of trust—in this case, the Lord. It's an active, volitional placement of one's confidence.
  • safe (Hebrew, sâgab', H7682): This word (H7682) means to be high, lofty, or inaccessible. It implies being elevated to a secure, protected position, beyond the reach of danger or harm. It speaks to divine elevation and protection, not necessarily immunity from physical trouble, but a profound spiritual and existential security.

Verse Breakdown

  • "The fear of man bringeth a snare": This clause describes the negative consequence of prioritizing human approval or fearing human disapproval. The "fear of man" (i.e., the anxiety, dread, or apprehension concerning what others think, say, or do) is personified as an active agent that "brings" or "gives" a "snare." This snare is a trap, a moral or spiritual pitfall that limits freedom, compels compromise, and can lead to destructive outcomes. It highlights how external pressures, when internalized as fear, can ensnare one's conscience and actions, leading to a loss of integrity and spiritual vitality.
  • "but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe": This contrasting clause offers the divine antidote and its positive outcome. "Whoso putteth his trust" signifies a deliberate and confident reliance on God. This trust is not passive but an active commitment of one's entire being to the Lord (Yᵉhôvâh, H3068), the self-existent, covenant-keeping God. The result of such trust is "safety," meaning to be elevated, secured, and placed in an inaccessible position of divine protection. This safety is a profound inner peace and spiritual security that transcends external circumstances, guarding the believer from the very snares that entrap those who fear man, and ensuring their ultimate well-being in God's sovereign care.

Literary Devices

Proverbs 29:25 powerfully employs Antithetical Parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. This device presents two contrasting statements or ideas that illuminate a central truth by setting them in opposition: "the fear of man" versus "trust in the LORD," and their respective outcomes, "a snare" versus "shall be safe." This stark contrast emphasizes the clear choice and its inevitable consequences. The verse also utilizes Metaphor, specifically in the phrase "bringeth a snare." The "snare" is a vivid image drawn from hunting, representing a trap or entanglement that captures and restricts. This metaphor effectively communicates the dangerous, confining, and potentially destructive nature of allowing human opinion to dictate one's life. Furthermore, the verse presents a clear Dichotomy, forcing the reader to choose between two mutually exclusive paths, with no middle ground. One either lives enslaved by the fear of man or liberated by trust in God, highlighting the profound spiritual and practical implications of each orientation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Proverbs 29:25 is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of God's sovereignty and humanity's fallen nature. The "fear of man" is a manifestation of idolatry, placing human approval above divine approval, and reflecting a lack of faith in God's ultimate control and provision. It reveals a heart that seeks security in shifting human sands rather than the unshakeable rock of God's character. Conversely, "trust in the LORD" is an act of profound faith, acknowledging God as the supreme authority, protector, and provider. It aligns with the "fear of the Lord" (reverential awe and obedience) that is consistently presented as the beginning of wisdom and the foundation of true life. This verse calls believers to a radical reorientation of their allegiances, recognizing that true freedom and security are found only when God is enthroned as the ultimate object of their trust, liberating them from the enslaving anxieties of human judgment and societal pressure. This theological truth undergirds many biblical exhortations to courage and steadfastness in the face of human opposition.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

In a world increasingly driven by social media, public opinion, and the constant pressure to conform, Proverbs 29:25 offers timeless wisdom and a liberating truth. The "fear of man" manifests today as the anxiety of cancel culture, the relentless pursuit of "likes" and validation, the pressure to adopt popular ideologies regardless of conviction, or the hesitation to speak truth for fear of rejection or ridicule. This fear can lead us to compromise our values, silence our conscience, or pursue paths that contradict God's will, effectively ensnaring us in a web of inauthenticity and spiritual bondage. To "put trust in the LORD" in this context means consciously choosing God's approval over human applause, His truth over popular narratives, and His eternal promises over fleeting societal trends. It involves cultivating a robust prayer life, immersing ourselves in Scripture, and actively seeking to obey God's commands, knowing that His protection and affirmation are the only true sources of security. This divine trust empowers us to live with integrity, boldness, and peace, regardless of external pressures, because our ultimate safety is found in Him alone, enabling us to walk in freedom and purpose.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what specific areas of your life do you find yourself most susceptible to the "fear of man"?
  • What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally cultivate a deeper trust in the Lord, rather than seeking human approval?
  • How might a greater trust in God empower you to speak truth, act with integrity, or stand firm in your convictions, even when it's unpopular?
  • What does "safety" truly mean in the context of this verse, and how does it differ from worldly definitions of security?

FAQ

What is the difference between "fear of man" and "fear of the Lord"?

Answer: The "fear of man" (chărâdâh) in Proverbs 29:25 refers to a debilitating anxiety, dread, or apprehension concerning human opinion, disapproval, or potential harm. It is a fear that leads to compromise, enslavement to external pressures, and ultimately, a "snare." In contrast, the "fear of the Lord" (yirʼâh) is a foundational concept in biblical wisdom, signifying a reverential awe, respect, and obedient submission to God's authority and holiness. This "fear" is not a paralyzing dread but a life-giving principle that leads to wisdom, knowledge, and true freedom, as seen in Proverbs 1:7 and Psalm 111:10. One ensnares, the other liberates.

Does "shall be safe" mean I will never experience hardship or persecution if I trust in God?

Answer: The "safety" (sâgab) promised in Proverbs 29:25 does not guarantee immunity from all physical harm, hardship, or persecution in this life. The Bible is clear that believers may face trials and suffering, and even martyrdom (e.g., John 16:33 and 2 Timothy 3:12). Instead, "safety" here refers to a profound spiritual, existential, and ultimate security. It means being elevated and protected by God, placed in a position where one's ultimate well-being, soul, and eternal destiny are secure in His hands, inaccessible to the destructive power of the "snare" of human fear. It implies an inner peace and divine oversight that preserves one's integrity and spiritual vitality, regardless of external circumstances, because God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Proverbs 29:25 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "fear of man" is a pervasive human condition rooted in our fallen nature, a desire for approval and security that often supplants our need for God. Jesus, however, perfectly embodied a life free from the fear of man, consistently seeking only the Father's will and approval, even to the point of facing the cross (e.g., John 8:29 and Luke 22:42). He did not compromise His message or mission to appease the crowds or the religious authorities, demonstrating true boldness and integrity, as seen in His confrontations with the Pharisees (Matthew 23). Furthermore, Jesus is the ultimate object of our "trust." He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the one in whom all God's promises are "Yes" and "Amen" (2 Corinthians 1:20). By placing our faith in Him, we are not merely trusting a principle but a Person—the living God who became flesh. In Christ, we find true "safety" and security, not just from the snares of human opinion, but from the ultimate snare of sin and death. He is our refuge and strength, our Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep, ensuring that no one can snatch us out of His hand. Through His atoning work, we are reconciled to God, liberated from the fear of judgment, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live boldly for Him, free from the enslaving grip of human approval, because our identity and security are now found in Christ alone (Colossians 3:3).

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Commentary on Proverbs 29 verse 25

25 ¶ The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

Here, 1. We are cautioned not to dread the power of man, neither the power of a prince nor the power of the multitude; both are formidable enough, but the slavish fear of either brings a snare, that is, exposes men to many insults (some take a pride in terrifying the timorous), or rather exposes men to many temptations. Abraham, for fear of man, denied his wife, and Peter his Master, and many a one his God and religion. We must not shrink from duty, nor commit sin, to avoid the wrath of man, nor, though we see it coming upon us, be disquieted with fear, Dan 3:16; Psa 118:6. He must himself die (Isa 51:12) and can but kill our body, Luk 12:5. 2. We are encouraged to depend upon the power of God, which would keep us from all that fear of man which has either torment or temptation in it. Whoso puts his trust in the Lord, for protection and supply in the way of duty, shall be set on high, above the power of man and above the fear of that power. A holy confidence in God makes a man both great and easy, and enables him to look with a gracious contempt upon the most formidable designs of hell and earth against him. If God be my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verse 25. Public domain.
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BedeAD 735
Commentary on Proverbs
He who fears man will quickly fall, etc. To whom fits the gospel saying, "Do not fear those who kill the body, but cannot kill the soul" (Matthew 10).
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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