Proverbs 20:25

New English Translation

²⁵It is a snare^[a] for a person^[b] to rashly cry,^[c] “Holy!”
and only afterward to consider^[d] what he has vowed.^[e]

Proverbs 20:25 sn It would be a “snare” because it would lead people into financial difficulties; Leviticus 27 talks about foolish or rash vows.
Proverbs 20:25 tn Heb “a man.”
Proverbs 20:25 tn The verb is from לוּע (luʿ) or לָעַע (laʿaʿ); it means “to talk wildly” (not to be confused with the homonym “to swallow”). It occurs here and in Job 6:3. sn This refers to speaking rashly in dedicating something to the sanctuary by calling it “Holy.”
Proverbs 20:25 tn Heb “reflect on.” The person is to consider the vows before making them, to ensure that they can be fulfilled. Too many people make their vow or promise without thinking, and then later worry about how they will fulfill their vows.
Proverbs 20:25 tn Heb “the vows” (so NASB); CEV “promises.”

New English Translation (NET)