Ecclesiastes 5:5

5 Better not to make a promise than to make a promise without fulfilling it.

Ecclesiastes 5:5 Meaning and Commentary

Ecclesiastes 5:5

Better [is it] that thou shouldest not vow
For a vow is an arbitrary thing; a man is not bound to make it, and while he vows not, it is in his own power, and at his option, whether he will do this or that, or not; but when he has once vowed, he is then brought under an obligation, and must perform; see ( Acts 5:4 ) ; and therefore it is better not to vow; it is more acceptable to God, and, it is better for a man; than that thou shouldest vow and not pay;
for this shows great weakness and folly, levity and inconstancy, and is resented by the Lord.

Ecclesiastes 5:5 In-Context

3 Remember: Dreams come with many cares, and the voice of fools with many words.

4 When you make a promise to God, fulfill it without delay because God has no pleasure in fools. Fulfill what you promise.

5 Better not to make a promise than to make a promise without fulfilling it.

6 Don't let your mouth make a sinner of you, and don't say to the messenger: "It was a mistake!" Otherwise, God may become angry at such talk and destroy what you have accomplished.

7 Remember: When dreams multiply, so do pointless thoughts and excessive speech. Therefore, fear God.