18 One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.
18 A man void of understanding
18 One who lacks sense gives a pledge and puts up security in the presence of his neighbor.
18 It's stupid to try to get something for nothing, or run up huge bills you can never pay.
18 A man devoid of understanding shakes hands in a pledge, And becomes surety for his friend.
18 It's poor judgment to guarantee another person's debt or put up security for a friend.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 17:18
Commentary on Proverbs 17:18
(Read Proverbs 17:18)
Let not any wrong their families. Yet Christ's becoming Surety for men, was a glorious display of Divine wisdom; for he was able to discharge the bond.