What does Psalm 144:13 mean?

Yes, when held in covenant context: prayed in dependence, received with gratitude, used for God's glory and others' good.

What does Proverbs 6:7 mean?

Not at all. It simply commends a character that does not require it to do right. Authority is good; needing it to function is immaturity.

Urgent Escape from Snares

Proverbs 6:5 Commentary

In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards

"Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler."

— Proverbs 6:5 (KJV)

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Introduction

Solomon has just warned a son who has co-signed for another (vv. 1–4). His advice is not measured retreat but panicked flight — the urgency of a deer with the bowstring already drawn.

Historical Context

Suretyship in ancient Israel could enslave a household overnight. Solomon urges immediate action before the snare tightens — a principle that applies far beyond money.

Original Language Insights

'Deliver' (natsal) — to snatch away, to tear free.

'Fowler' (yaqush) — one who lays bird traps. Birds and roes do not negotiate with hunters; they flee.

Theological Significance

Some sins and entanglements must be fled, not reasoned with. Wisdom knows the difference between the moment to argue and the moment to run.

Practical Application

Is there a snare you've been negotiating with instead of escaping? Verse 5 says: run today, not tomorrow.

Cross-References & Related Scriptures

Proverbs 6:6

"Go to the ant, thou sluggard."

The next verse — opposite vice. v. 5 warns the foolishly-bound; v. 6 warns the lazy.

1 Corinthians 6:18

"Flee fornication."

Paul echoes the same urgency for moral snares.

Prayer Response

Lord, give me eyes to see the snare and feet to flee it without delay. Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this verse only about debt?

No. The imagery applies to any entanglement — debt, addiction, abusive relationships, compromising commitments. Wisdom flees what it cannot safely reason with.

Read commentary on surrounding verses

Continue studying Proverbs 6 verse by verse:

After · Proverbs 6:6Exact verse

Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

Theme: Wisdom & Discernment

After · Proverbs 6:7Exact verse

Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,

Theme: Self-Motivated Diligence

Nearest commentary in Proverbs

Earlier · 2 ch back · Proverbs 4:7Nearest chapter

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

Theme: Wisdom

Earlier · 2 ch back · Proverbs 4:18Nearest chapter

But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Theme: Growing Brighter

Later · 2 ch forward · Proverbs 8:11Nearest chapter

For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared with it.

Theme: Wisdom & Discernment

Later · 2 ch forward · Proverbs 8:17Nearest chapter

I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

Theme: Seeking Wisdom

Read Proverbs 5No commentary yet

Read Proverbs 6 (full)Nearest commentary: Proverbs 6:6

Read Proverbs 7No commentary yet

Previous commentary: Proverbs 4:23 Next commentary: Proverbs 6:6

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Quick Devotional

For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

Proverbs 22:6 – Meaning & Devotional

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

Proverbs 16:3 – Meaning & Devotional

"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."

Proverbs 18:10 – Meaning & Devotional

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."

Related Miracles

Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

Provision

Old Testament

Elijah Fed by Ravens

During a drought, ravens brought bread and meat to Elijah morning and evening by the brook Cherith.

Read the miracle

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