# pledge, pledged, pledges, guarantee, betroth, promise to be ... husband, becomes responsible ## Definition: The term "pledge" refers to formally and solemnly promising to do something or give something. * In the Old Testament the officials of Israel pledged to be loyal to King David. * The object given as a pledge would be returned to its owner when the promise was fulfilled. * To "pledge" could be translate as to "formally commit to" or to "strongly promise." * The term "pledge" can also refer to an object given as a guarantee or promise that a debt will be paid. * Ways to translate "a pledge" could include "a solemn promise" or "a formal commitment" or "a guarantee" or "a formal assurance," depending on the context. (See also: [promise](../kt/promise.md), [oath](../other/oath.md), [vow](../kt/vow.md)) ## Bible References: * [2 Corinthians 05:4-5](rc://en/tn/help/2co/05/04) * [Exodus 22:26](rc://en/tn/help/exo/22/26) * [Genesis 38:17-18](rc://en/tn/help/gen/38/17) * [Nehemiah 10:28-29](rc://en/tn/help/neh/10/28) ## Word Data: * Strong's: H781, H2254, H2258, H5667, H5671, H6148, H6162, G728