The fear of man is a snareThe phrase "fear of man" refers to the anxiety or concern about what others think or might do, which can lead to compromising one's values or beliefs. In biblical times, this fear could manifest in various ways, such as fearing persecution, social ostracism, or loss of status. The term "snare" suggests a trap or a dangerous situation that can entangle and capture someone, leading to spiritual or moral compromise. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as
Isaiah 51:12-13, where God reminds His people not to fear mortal men. The fear of man can lead to actions that are contrary to God's will, as seen in the life of King Saul, who disobeyed God due to fear of the people's opinion (
1 Samuel 15:24).
but whoever trusts in the LORD
Trusting in the LORD implies a deep, abiding faith and reliance on God's character and promises. This trust is a central theme throughout the Bible, as seen inProverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the LORD with all their heart. Trusting God involves acknowledging His sovereignty, wisdom, and goodness, even when circumstances are challenging. This trust is not passive but active, requiring believers to live out their faith through obedience and reliance on God's guidance. The historical context of Israel's reliance on God during times of trouble, such as the Exodus, serves as a backdrop for understanding the importance of trust in God.
is set securely on high
The imagery of being "set securely on high" suggests safety, protection, and exaltation. In ancient times, high places were often seen as secure locations, away from danger and enemies. This phrase indicates that those who trust in the LORD are elevated above the fears and threats that might otherwise ensnare them. This concept is reflected inPsalm 91:14, where God promises to protect those who love Him and acknowledge His name. The idea of being set on high also points to the ultimate security found in a relationship with God, who is a refuge and fortress for His people. This security is not just physical but spiritual, offering peace and assurance in the midst of life's challenges.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonTraditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and divine wisdom are reflected throughout the book of Proverbs.
2.
IsraelThe nation to whom the Proverbs were initially addressed. The cultural and historical context of Israel provides a backdrop for understanding the societal pressures and fears that might lead one to fear man over God.
3.
The LORD (Yahweh)The covenant name of God used in the Old Testament, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. Trusting in Yahweh is contrasted with fearing man.
Teaching Points
The Danger of Human ApprovalThe "fear of man" can lead to compromise and sin. It is a snare that traps us into valuing human opinion over God's truth.
Trust as a Secure FoundationTrusting in the LORD provides security and stability. The Hebrew word for "trust" (batach) implies confidence and reliance, suggesting a firm foundation.
Elevated PerspectiveBeing "set securely on high" indicates a position of safety and perspective. Trusting God lifts us above the immediate fears and pressures of life.
Faith Over FearCultivating a deep trust in God helps us overcome the fear of man. This trust is built through prayer, scripture study, and obedience.
Practical Steps to TrustRegularly remind yourself of God's promises, surround yourself with a community of believers, and practice obedience in small steps to build trust in God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 29:25?
2.How does Proverbs 29:25 define the "fear of man" in daily life?
3.What does it mean to "trust in the LORD" according to Proverbs 29:25?
4.How can Proverbs 29:25 be connected to Matthew 10:28 about fear?
5.What practical steps can you take to avoid the "snare" mentioned?
6.How can trusting God bring "security" in your current circumstances?
7.How does Proverbs 29:25 define the concept of fear in a spiritual context?
8.What does Proverbs 29:25 suggest about the relationship between trust in God and personal safety?
9.How does Proverbs 29:25 challenge the modern understanding of security and risk?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 29?
11.What does the Bible say about fearing others?
12.What does the Bible say about people pleasing?
13.What does the Bible say about fearing others?
14.What does the Bible say about people pleasing?What Does Proverbs 29:25 Mean
The fear of man- “Fear” here is not healthy respect; it is the anxious need to win approval, avoid criticism, or dodge opposition.
- Examples the Bible gives of this unhealthy fear:
• King Saul confessed, “I have sinned… because I feared the people” (1 Samuel 15:24).
• Religious leaders believed in Jesus “but… loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:42-43).
• Paul contrasts this attitude with true discipleship: “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10).
- When the opinions of people loom larger than the Word of God, our motives, decisions, and even our worship become distorted.
is a snare- A snare is a hidden trap that clamps down suddenly. Fear of what others think quietly sets itself, then springs at the crucial moment.
- Scripture pictures sin’s traps often: “An evil man is caught by his own sin” (Proverbs 29:6); “My eyes are ever on the LORD, for He will free my feet from the net” (Psalm 25:15).
- Real-life snares:
• Peter, intimidated by a servant girl’s question, denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:54-62).
• Pilate, fearing the crowd, handed over the innocent Savior (Matthew 27:24).
- The result is bondage—compromise, silence, spiritual paralysis.
but whoever trusts in the LORD- Trust is the deliberate choice to lean the whole weight of life on God’s character and promises.
- Proverbs circles back to this theme often: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart” (Proverbs 3:5-6); “He who trusts in the LORD will prosper” (Proverbs 28:25).
- Trust shifts our focus:
• From people’s changing moods to God’s unchanging faithfulness (Psalm 56:3-4).
• From self-protection to God’s sovereign care (Isaiah 26:3).
- Trust is active: we obey even when it might cost us socially, financially, or physically, believing God’s verdict outweighs every human verdict.
is set securely on high- The phrase pictures a fortified height—safe, out of reach of danger.
- David testifies: “He will conceal me in His shelter in the day of trouble; He will hide me under the cover of His tent; He will set me high upon a rock” (Psalm 27:5).
- Additional assurances:
• “Because he loves Me, I will set him securely on high, for he knows My name” (Psalm 91:14).
• “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
- God does not promise the absence of earthly threats, but He guarantees ultimate security—spiritual, eternal, and often practical protection right now.
summaryProverbs 29:25 contrasts two ways to live. Let the dread of human opinion drive you, and you step into a hidden trap that tightens around your soul. Place your confidence in the Lord, and He lifts you to a place of safety beyond the reach of those same pressures. One path leads to bondage; the other to freedom and unshakable security.
(25)
The fear of man bringeth a snare.--Even, it may be, the loss of eternal life. (Comp.
Matthew 10:28;
John 12:25.)
Verse 25. -
The fear of man bringeth a snare. He who, through fear of what man may do to him, think or say of him, does what he knows to be wrong, lets his moral cowardice lead him into sin, leaves duty undone, - such a man gets no real good from his weakness, outrages conscience, displeases God. See our Lord's words (
Matthew 10:28;
Mark 8:38; and comp.
Isaiah 51:12, etc). Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (
Proverbs 18:10). Such trust carries a man safe through all dangers; fearing to offend God, living as always under his eye, he feels Divine protection, and knows that whatever happens is for the best. The LXX. joins this to the preceding verse, thus: "He who shareth with a thief hateth his own soul; and if, when an oath is offered, they who hear it give, no information, they fearing and reverencing men, are overthrown, but he that trusteth in the Lord shall rejoice." They add another rendering of the last verse, "Ungodliness causeth a man to stumble, but he who trusts in the Lord (
ἐπὶ τῷ δεσπότῃ2 Peter 2:1) shall be saved."
Δεσπότης is used for
Jehovah in the New Testament,
e.g.,
Luke 2:29;
Acts 4:24.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
The fearחֶרְדַּ֣ת(ḥer·daṯ)Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2731:Trembling, fear, anxietyof manאָ֭דָם(’ā·ḏām)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120:Ruddy, a human beingisיִתֵּ֣ן(yit·tên)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5414:To give, put, seta snare,מוֹקֵ֑שׁ(mō·w·qêš)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4170:A bait or lure, a snarebut whoever trustsוּבוֹטֵ֖חַ(ū·ḇō·w·ṭê·aḥ)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 982:To trust, be confident, surein the LORDבַּיהוָ֣ה(Yah·weh)Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelwill be set securely on high.יְשֻׂגָּֽב׃(yə·śug·gāḇ)Verb - Pual - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7682:To be, lofty, inaccessible, safe, strong
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man proves to be (Prov. Pro Pr)