surety

Everyday

1. A surety is a promise to pay or do something if another person fails, or the person who makes such a promise. tree →
2. (old use) Surety is certainty, something you can be sure of. tree →

In the lessons

in tales a person who vouches for another is called a surety

Examples

• Two sureties are better than one. tree →
• «Who are the sureties?» said Fionn. tree →

Note

nothing for maths

In Jewish tradition

Judah became surety for Benjamin and promised to bring him home. The Prophets and Psalms ask God Himself to be surety, a protector who stands up for the person who is oppressed.

Interpretation. Judah's pledge to be surety for Benjamin is seen as his turning point, when he becomes ready to take responsibility, and later Jews are said to be responsible for one another. Asking God to be surety is read as trust that God will defend the weak.

Examples

• And the LORD said unto Abraham: 'Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying: Shall I of a surety bear a child, who am old? (Torah GEN.18.13, JPS 1917) tree →
• For thy servant became surety for the lad unto my father, saying: If I bring him not unto thee, then shall I bear the blame to my father for ever. (Torah GEN.44.32, JPS 1917) tree →
• I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou require him; if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then let me bear the blame for ever. (Torah GEN.43.9, JPS 1917) tree →
• O LORD, I am oppressed, be Thou my surety. (Prophets ISA.38.14, JPS 1917) tree →
• Be surety for Thy servant for good; let not the proud oppress me. (Writings PSA.119.122, JPS 1917) tree →
• Yea, of a surety, God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert justice. (Writings JOB.34.12, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

nothing for maths