Proverbs 29:25
“The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Context
Near the close of the collected proverbs, this saying contrasts two competing trusts -- the crippling fear of people versus the security found in trusting God.
What Does Proverbs 29:25 Mean?
Proverbs 29:25 teaches that being controlled by the fear of other people becomes a trap, while trusting God brings true security. The "fear of man" is the anxious need for approval and the dread of others' opinions, rejection, or hostility. The proverb calls this a "snare" -- a hidden trap that catches and holds. When we are ruled by what others might think or do, we compromise our convictions, stay silent when we should speak, and become captive to forces outside ourselves.
The contrast is the path of freedom: "whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe." The same word translated "safe" appears in the picture of the strong tower earlier in Proverbs -- it means to be set on high, lifted beyond the reach of harm. Trusting God reorders our fears. When God holds the highest place in our hearts, the opinions and threats of people lose their power to control us. This does not mean becoming indifferent to others; it means being freed from the bondage of needing their approval. The proverb offers a deeply practical wisdom: the cure for the fear of man is not more willpower but a deeper trust in God, who alone can keep the soul truly safe.
In the Original Language
The word "snare" is "moqesh," a trap or noose. "Trust" is "batach," to lean on with confidence, and "safe" is "sagav," to be set high and secure -- the same root used of the strong tower.
Cross References
Application
When you feel paralyzed by others' opinions or approval, redirect your trust to God, letting your confidence in Him free you from the snare of the fear of people.