Proverbs 3:28
Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.
Proverbs 3:28 · King James Version
Meaning
When analyzing the verse "Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee," it is important to understand the underlying message of the passage. This verse from the Bible urges individuals to be mindful of their promises and commitments to others, especially when it comes to matters of borrowing or lending. In essence, the verse discourages the practice of delaying or postponing fulfilling one's obligations to a neighbor when the resources are readily available. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and compassion in all interactions with others. By honoring our word and acting promptly on our commitments, we demonstrate respect and kindness towards our neighbors, fostering a sense of trust and community. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize fairness and accountability in our relationships, showing love and consideration for others in our daily interactions.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and tomorrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee" emphasizes the importance of generosity, honesty, and compassion towards others. In this context, the verse cautions against making empty promises or delaying acts of kindness when it is within our power to help those in need. The verse encourages us to be prompt and generous in our dealings with our neighbors, showing a spirit of goodwill and kindness. This message is echoed in other passages throughout the Bible, underscoring the significance of treating others with kindness and consideration. Additionally, a word study of the verse uncovers the deeper meanings of the terms used, shedding light on the nuances of the original text and providing a richer understanding of the verse's message.
Proverbs 3:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
Say not unto thy neighbor, Go, and come again, And to-morrow I will give; When thou hast it by thee.
World English Bible
Don’t say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again; tomorrow I will give it to you,” when you have it by you.
Douay-Rheims
Say not to thy friend: Go, and come again: and to morrow I will give to thee: when thou canst give at present.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Say not vnto thy neighbour, Go and come againe, and to morow wil I giue thee, if thou now haue it.