Lexical Summary yala: To profit, gain, avail, be of use Original Word: יָלַע Strong's Exhaustive Concordance devour A primitive root; to blurt or utter inconsiderately -- devour. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originthe same as lua, q.v. Brown-Driver-Briggs יַָלע Proverbs 20:25 see לעע. ילף (√ of foll; meaning dubious; Arabic Topical Lexicon Biblical Setting The solitary Scriptural appearance of יָלַע is in Proverbs 20:25: “It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows”. Situated in Solomon’s collection of wisdom sayings, the verb pierces to the heart of impulsive speech, equating reckless consecration with stepping into a snare. Concept of Rash Dedication Throughout Israel’s history, vows were voluntary yet binding offerings of worship (Leviticus 27:2; Numbers 30:2). יָלַע exposes the danger of treating such solemn engagements lightly. In Proverbs the word pictures a hasty rush—setting apart one’s property or promise for sacred use without the sober reflection covenant faithfulness demands. The text warns that the snare tightens when “after vows” a person seeks to “inquire” (evaluate, change, or reclaim) what was once committed to the Lord. Wisdom Literature Emphasis Proverbs repeatedly places restraint of tongue alongside fear of the Lord (Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 12:18). יָלַע advances this theme by showing that even pious-sounding words can be sinful if uttered thoughtlessly. The sage links verbal precipitation with spiritual entrapment, underscoring that wisdom is measured not by frequency of religious declarations but by reverent integrity behind them. Historical Resonance in Ancient Israel Temple economy and communal festivals relied on free-will offerings. A rash declaration might deprive one’s household or jeopardize legal standing should fulfillment be delayed (Deuteronomy 23:21-23). By employing יָלַע, Proverbs aligns with judicial case law that placed responsibility squarely on the vow-maker. While priests assessed vowed items (Leviticus 27:14), they could not release an individual from moral accountability. Thus the verb serves Israel’s didactic tradition, curbing casual piety in a culture where spoken covenants shaped social and religious order. Theological Trajectory 1. Sanctity of Speech: יָלַע reinforces that words possess covenantal weight (Ecclesiastes 5:2-6; Matthew 12:36). Ministerial Application • Preaching: Use Proverbs 20:25 to warn against emotion-driven pledges in stewardship campaigns, emphasizing deliberate, prayerful commitment. Practical Discernment for Today Modern culture prizes instant expression—social media posts, online giving pledges, rapid-fire agreements. The timeless counsel behind יָלַע calls believers to pause, examine capacity, seek godly counsel, and ensure that every uttered consecration springs from a heart surrendered to Christ, so that offerings become a joy rather than a snare. Summary יָלַע spotlights the peril of hasty consecration. Though appearing only once, the verb anchors a broad biblical principle: sacred promises demand sober reflection. The wise therefore guard their lips, honor their vows, and find freedom rather than entrapment in wholehearted, measured devotion to the Lord. Forms and Transliterations יָ֣לַע ילע yā·la‘ Yala yāla‘Links Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Proverbs 20:25 HEB: מוֹקֵ֣שׁ אָ֭דָם יָ֣לַע קֹ֑דֶשׁ וְאַחַ֖ר KJV: to the man [who] devoureth [that which is] holy, INT: trap A man devoureth is holy and after |
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III. is conjunctus fuit cum aliquo, etc., Frey; whence ילפת as an accretion? so Thes 'ab adhaerendo').