15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.
15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure.
15 Whoever makes deals with strangers is sure to get burned; if you keep a cool head, you'll avoid rash bargains.
15 He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, But one who hates being surety is secure.
15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt; it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.
18 One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.
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.
(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.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 11:15
Commentary on Proverbs 11:15
(Read Proverbs 11:15)
The welfare of our families, our own peace, and our ability to pay just debts, must not be brought into danger. But here especially let us consider the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ in becoming Surety even for enemies.