The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 10:32
What does Proverbs 10:32 mean?
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Proverbs 10:32
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This verse highlights that for the righteous, "knowing what is acceptable" isn't just theoretical knowledge; it's a practiced wisdom that guides their very speech. Their lips have been trained to discern and articulate what is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This proverb stands as a concise summary within a larger section of Proverbs (chapters 10-15) that contrasts the ways of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. It caps off a series of individual, sharp contrasts where Solomon highlights how the speech and actions of the righteous bring life and favor, while the wicked's words and deeds lead to destruction and perversion. The preceding verses have focused on specific areas like boasting, confession of sin, and the consequences of dishonesty, all building towards this ultimate distinction in their very communication.
Ever wonder why some people just seem to say the right thing at the right time? It's not just about having a good vocabulary.
This verse highlights that for the righteous, 'knowing what is acceptable' isn't just a mental exercise; it's a practiced wisdom.
Speaking with Purpose
What drives the words that come out of the mouths of those who reject God's ways? It's a stark contrast to godly speech.
The verse starkly contrasts the righteous with the wicked, describing the wicked's speech as 'perverse.' This isn't just occasional error; it's their characteristic mode of communication.
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The Nature of Perverse Speech
Understand the original words
saphah · Hebrew Noun
The physical edges of the mouth, used metaphorically to speak of the source of utterance. Like the mouth, they represent the thoughts and values revealed through speech.
yada · Hebrew Verb
To perceive, recognize, or have intimate knowledge of something through experience or discernment. In a biblical context, it implies more than intellectual awareness; it suggests a relational or practical appropriation of truth.
ratson · Hebrew Noun
That which is pleasing, favorable, or agreeable, especially in the context of being acceptable to God or beneficial to others. It characterizes words or actions that align with God’s will.
rasha · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
Those who are morally guilty, opposed to God, and acting in violation of His covenantal law. They are characterized by a heart and life that rejects divine authority and wisdom.
This passage directly contrasts Jesus' gracious words with the often harsh or deceptive speech of others, highlighting the 'acceptable' nature of righteous speech.
Psalm 37:30It echoes the idea that righteous speech is rooted in wisdom and understanding, leading to words that are pleasing and beneficial.
Ephesians 4:29This verse provides a direct command to speak only what is good for building others up, aligning perfectly with the 'acceptable' speech of the righteous and the 'perverse' speech of the wicked.
Colossians 4:6It emphasizes that our speech should always be gracious and seasoned with wisdom, mirroring the discerning knowledge of the righteous described in Proverbs.
pooleProverbs 10:32: "The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness."
Know, to wit, practically, so as to consider and speak. Knowledge is here ascribed to the lips , as it is to the hands Psalm 78:72 , because they are conducted by knowledge and wisdom. What is acceptable to God and good men, or what is truly worthy of acceptation; for this is opposed to what is froward or wicked in the next clause.
ellicottProverbs 10:32: "The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness."
(32) What is acceptable.— To God and man. (Comp. the gracious words which proceeded out of Christ’s lips, Luke 4:22 .) Speaketh frowardness.—Rather, is mere falsehood, misrepresentation. (See above on Proverbs 8:30.)
This verse highlights that for the righteous, "knowing what is acceptable" isn't just theoretical knowledge; it's a practiced wisdom that guides their very speech. Their lips have been trained to discern and articulate what is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.
This proverb stands as a concise summary within a larger section of Proverbs (chapters 10-15) that contrasts the ways of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. It caps off a series of individual, sharp contrasts where Solomon highlights how the speech and actions of the righteous bring life and favor, while the wicked's words and deeds lead to destruction and perversion. The preceding verses have focused on specific areas like boasting, confession of sin, and the consequences of dishonesty, all building towards this ultimate distinction in their very communication.
This proverb stands as a concise summary within a larger section of Proverbs (chapters 10-15) that contrasts the ways of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. It caps off a series of individual, sharp contrasts where Solomon highlights how the speech and actions of the righteous bring life and favor, while the wicked's words and deeds lead to destruction and perversion. The preceding verses have focused on specific areas like boasting, confession of sin, and the consequences of dishonesty, all building towards this ultimate distinction in their very communication.
"The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse." — This verse highlights that for the righteous, "knowing what is acceptable" isn't just theoretical knowledge; it's a practiced wisdom that guides their very speech. Their lips have been trained to dis…
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Last reviewed October 2026