Proverbs 10:32
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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It’s not just about knowing what’s right; the verse highlights that the righteous actively use their lips for what is acceptable, implying a consistent practice. Meanwhile, the wicked aren't just ignorant; their mouths are characterized by and accustomed to speaking perverse things.
This verse continues the theme of contrasting the speech of the righteous and the wicked, which has been a central focus since chapter 10, verse 11. While previous verses often highlighted the results of their words (like building up or destruction), this one digs into the nature of their speech itself. It contrasts the discerning, pleasing words of the godly with the inherently twisted and perverse talk that constantly comes from the ungodly.
Ever feel like you're just saying the wrong thing at the wrong time? The Bible shows us that our words aren't random – they reveal what's truly in our hearts.
Proverbs contrasts the speech of the righteous with that of the wicked. Notice how the verse says the lips of the righteous 'know' what is acceptable. This isn't just intellectual knowledge; it's a practical, lived wisdom. Their speech is guided by an inner sense of what pleases God and benefits others. It implies they've cultivated this discernment through a life aligned with righteousness. Their words are carefully chosen, reflecting a heart that seeks to build up and bring good, not to tear down or cause harm.
The 'mouth of the wicked,' on the other hand, speaks what is 'perverse.' This isn't accidental; it's their default. Their speech is twisted, contrary to truth, and often harmful. It stems from a heart that is not aligned with God's ways.
What makes words 'acceptable'? It's more than just politeness – it's about speaking truth with love and wisdom.
The verse tells us the righteous know what is 'acceptable.' This word points to something that is pleasing, fitting, and beneficial. It’s speech that is:
This 'acceptable' speech is contrasted with the 'perverse' speech of the wicked, which is crooked, misleading, and harmful. The righteous don't just have good words; they know what words are good and they use them. It's a deliberate choice flowing from a life centered on righteousness.
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
This passage highlights Jesus' gracious words, showing the kind of 'acceptable' speech that characterizes the righteous, contrasting with the perverse speech of the wicked.
Psalm 37:30This verse echoes Proverbs by stating that the mouth of the righteous utters wisdom and their tongue speaks justice, directly aligning with the idea of knowing and speaking what is acceptable.
Ephesians 4:29This New Testament instruction to let no corrupting talk come out of believers' mouths, but only what is good for building up, directly relates to the righteous knowing and speaking what is acceptable.
James 3:10This passage powerfully illustrates the contrast between blessings and curses coming from the same mouth, underscoring the profound difference between righteous and wicked speech.
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.)
It’s not just about knowing what’s right; the verse highlights that the righteous actively use their lips for what is acceptable, implying a consistent practice. Meanwhile, the wicked aren't just ignorant; their mouths are characterized by and accustomed to speaking perverse things.
This verse continues the theme of contrasting the speech of the righteous and the wicked, which has been a central focus since chapter 10, verse 11. While previous verses often highlighted the results of their words (like building up or destruction), this one digs into the nature of their speech itself. It contrasts the discerning, pleasing words of the godly with the inherently twisted and perverse talk that constantly comes from the ungodly.
This verse continues the theme of contrasting the speech of the righteous and the wicked, which has been a central focus since chapter 10, verse 11. While previous verses often highlighted the of their words (like building up or destruction), this one digs into the of their speech itself. It contrasts the discerning, pleasing words of the godly with the inherently twisted and perverse talk that constantly comes from the ungodly.
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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.
"The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse." — It’s not just about knowing what’s right; the verse highlights that the righteous actively use their lips for what is acceptable, implying a consistent practice. Meanwhile, the wicked aren't just…
