In the context of biblical teachings, the concept of avoiding assumptions is deeply rooted in the principles of wisdom, discernment, and humility. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that caution against making assumptions, which can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and erroneous judgments.

Biblical Principles Against Assumptions

1. Discernment and Wisdom: The Bible emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding before making judgments. Proverbs 18:13 states, "He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him." This verse highlights the folly of making assumptions without fully understanding the situation.

2. Judging Others: Jesus teaches against making hasty judgments about others. In Matthew 7:1-2 , He says, "Do not judge, or you will be judged. For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." This passage warns against the dangers of assuming the motives or character of others without proper knowledge.

3. Seeking Truth: The pursuit of truth is a central theme in Scripture. Proverbs 25:2 states, "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out." This encourages believers to seek out the truth diligently rather than relying on assumptions.

4. Humility and Acknowledgment of Limitations: Recognizing our own limitations and the potential for error is crucial. James 4:14-15 reminds us, "You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.'" This passage underscores the importance of humility and reliance on God's will rather than our assumptions.

Examples of Assumptions in the Bible

1. Job's Friends: In the Book of Job, Job's friends make numerous assumptions about the cause of his suffering, believing it to be a result of sin. Job 42:7 records God's rebuke of their assumptions: "After the LORD had spoken these words to Job, He said to Eliphaz the Temanite, 'My anger burns against you and your two friends, for you have not spoken the truth about Me, as My servant Job has.'"

2. The Pharisees and Jesus: The Pharisees often made assumptions about Jesus and His teachings, leading to conflict and misunderstanding. In John 7:24 , Jesus admonishes them, "Stop judging by outward appearances, and start judging justly."

3. David and Eliab: In 1 Samuel 17:28 , Eliab, David's brother, assumes David's motives for coming to the battlefield are prideful and mischievous: "When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, 'Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the wickedness of your heart; you have come down to see the battle.'"

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to practice patience, seek understanding, and rely on God's wisdom rather than their own assumptions. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This guidance helps prevent the pitfalls of assumptions and promotes a life of faith and discernment.