Proverbs 20:16
Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider.
In context
13 Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare. 14 “It’s no good, it’s no good!” says the buyer— then goes off and boasts about the purchase. 15 Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel. 16 Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider.
17 Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel. 18 Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance. 19 A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 20:16 in the KJV
Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: And take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 20:16 in the ESV
Take a man’s garment when he has put up security for a stranger, and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for foreigners.