Proverbs 11:13
Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The original Hebrew word for "talebearer" paints a vivid picture of someone like a traveling merchant, not of goods, but of gossip, constantly trading in scandal. This verse isn't just about keeping secrets, but about the very character of someone trustworthy versus someone whose "trading" habit leads them to betray confidences.
This proverb is part of a larger collection in Proverbs 10-15 that contrasts the righteous and the wicked, specifically focusing on the dangers of gossip and the virtue of trustworthiness. It stands as a practical instruction on how to navigate social relationships, appearing amidst verses that discuss wise speech and the consequences of folly. The immediate context continues this theme, contrasting the destructive nature of a "talebearer" with the character of someone reliable and discreet.
Ever felt betrayed by someone who couldn't keep their mouth shut? This verse paints a vivid picture of that kind of person.
The Hebrew word for 'talebearer' literally means someone who 'walks about' like a peddler, trading in gossip and scandal. This isn't just idle chatter; it's a deliberate act of spreading what should be kept private. Such a person is untrustworthy, not only betraying the secrets shared with them but often twisting information to stir trouble. Their 'business' is to broadcast secrets, making them unreliable and harmful.
In contrast to the gossip, this verse presents a different kind of person – someone who is a sanctuary for confidences.
The 'faithful spirit' is characterized by loyalty and discretion. Unlike the talebearer who profits from exposure, this person values integrity and protects what is entrusted to them. They understand that true friendship and community are built on reliability. They don't just avoid spreading secrets; they actively 'conceal' them, meaning they guard them and keep them safe. This faithfulness builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Understand the original words
rakil · Hebrew Noun/Verb
To go about as a gossip or talebearer; one who reveals confidential matters, causing strife and damaging reputations.
emun · Hebrew Adjective
One who is faithful, loyal, and reliable in their inner disposition. It describes a person of integrity whose character can be trusted with secrets or responsibilities.
This passage directly calls out the destructive nature of gossip, stating 'You shall not go about spreading slander among your people.' It highlights the negative impact of words, echoing Proverbs' warning against talebearers.
Proverbs 20:19This verse pairs nicely by stating, 'A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.' It reinforces the idea that those who can't keep secrets are untrustworthy, directly supporting the contrast made in Proverbs 11:13.
1 Timothy 5:11-13Paul warns younger widows against becoming gossips and busybodies, noting that 'they get addicted to this idleness and go from house to house. Not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to.' This passage shows the destructive pattern of gossip in the early church, mirroring the warnings in Proverbs.
Matthew 12:36-37Jesus states, 'But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for on the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.' This emphasizes the weighty responsibility we have for our words, including the secrets we might betray or keep.
clarkeProverbs 11:13: "A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter."
A talebearer - הולך רכיל holech rachil, the walking busybody, the trader in scandal. Revealeth secrets - Whatever was confided to him he is sure to publish abroad. The word means a hawker, or travelling chapman. Such are always great newsmongers; and will tell even their own secrets, rather than have nothing to say.
pulpitProverbs 11:13: "A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter."
Verse 13. - A tale-bearer. The word implies one who goes about chattering, gossiping, and slandering (Leviticus 19:16); Vulgate, qui ambulat fraudulenter; Septuagint, "the man of double tongue." To such a man it is safe to trust nothing; he revealeth secrets (Proverbs 20:19). He that is of a faithful spirit; a steadfast, trusty man, not a gadder about; he retains what is committed to him…
The original Hebrew word for "talebearer" paints a vivid picture of someone like a traveling merchant, not of goods, but of gossip, constantly trading in scandal. This verse isn't just about keeping secrets, but about the very character of someone trustworthy versus someone whose "trading" habit leads them to betray confidences.
This proverb is part of a larger collection in Proverbs 10-15 that contrasts the righteous and the wicked, specifically focusing on the dangers of gossip and the virtue of trustworthiness. It stands as a practical instruction on how to navigate social relationships, appearing amidst verses that discuss wise speech and the consequences of folly. The immediate context continues this theme, contrasting the destructive nature of a "talebearer" with the character of someone reliable and discreet.
This proverb is part of a larger collection in Proverbs 10-15 that contrasts the righteous and the wicked, specifically focusing on the dangers of gossip and the virtue of trustworthiness. It stands as a practical instruction on how to navigate social relationships, appearing amidst verses that discuss wise speech and the consequences of folly. The immediate context continues this theme, contrasting the destructive nature of a "talebearer" with the character of someone reliable and discreet.
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"Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered." — The original Hebrew word for "talebearer" paints a vivid picture of someone like a traveling merchant, not of goods, but of gossip, constantly trading in scandal. This verse isn't just about keeping…
