Deuteronomy 23:21
When thou shalt vow a vow unto the LORD thy God, thou shalt not slack to pay it: for the LORD thy God will surely require it of thee; and it would be sin in thee.
Deuteronomy 23:21 · King James Version
Meaning
When vowing a vow to the Lord, it is crucial to follow through on the commitment. This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling promises made to God, as He will hold us accountable for our words. The verse warns against delaying or neglecting to fulfill our vows, as it is considered a sin in the eyes of the Lord. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of making vows to God and the necessity of upholding them. By honoring our commitments to God, we demonstrate our faithfulness and obedience to Him. The verse highlights the significance of integrity and honesty in our relationship with God, urging us to be diligent in fulfilling our obligations. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of sincerity and sincerity in our worship and devotion to the Lord.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of Deuteronomy 23:21, it is important to understand the concept of making a vow to the Lord. In ancient times, making a vow was a serious commitment and a way of showing devotion and dedication to God. The verse emphasizes the importance of honoring vows and not delaying in fulfilling them, as it is seen as a sinful act to go back on one's word to the Lord. The phrase "the LORD thy God will surely require it of thee" underscores the seriousness of keeping one's promises to God. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of integrity, faithfulness, and obedience in the eyes of the Lord. From a word study perspective, the term "slack" conveys the idea of being slow or hesitant, highlighting the importance of promptness in fulfilling vows. Overall, this verse encourages believers to be steadfast and faithful in their commitments to God, knowing that He holds them accountable for their words and actions.
Deuteronomy 23:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
When thou shalt vow a vow unto Jehovah thy God, thou shalt not be slack to pay it: for Jehovah thy God will surely require it of thee; and it would be sin in thee.
World English Bible
When you vow a vow to Yahweh your God, you shall not be slack to pay it; for Yahweh your God will surely require it of you; and it would be sin in you.
Douay-Rheims
When thou hast made a vow to the Lord thy God, thou shalt not delay to pay it: because the Lord thy God will require it. And if thou delay, it shall be imputed to thee for a sin.
Geneva Bible (1599)
When thou shalt vowe a vowe vnto the Lord thy God, thou shalt not be slacke to paye it: for the Lord thy God will surely require it of thee, and so it should be sinne vnto thee.