Proverbs 20:19
Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it points out the surprising connection between revealing secrets and being someone with an open mouth. It suggests that a person who can't keep their lips shut is fundamentally untrustworthy with sensitive information, so steer clear of such babblers.
This verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it connects it directly to the danger of those who "open their mouths wide." Such people can't seem to keep their words contained, and this uncontrolled speech is the very channel through which secrets are revealed, often to their own detriment and the harm of others.
Some people just can't seem to keep a secret, can they? But Proverbs 20:19 warns us this isn't just annoying—it's destructive.
The Talebearer's Trade
The verse calls out the 'talebearer' who 'reveals secrets.' Think of someone who can't resist sharing what they've heard, even if it's private. This isn't just harmless gossip; it's a betrayal of trust.
The Ripple Effect
When secrets are spread, it damages reputations, breaks relationships, and can cause real harm. The Hebrew word used here implies someone who 'goes about,' constantly on the move, spreading information. It’s an active, harmful pattern of behavior.
Your Speech Matters
This verse reminds us that what we say, and what we don't say, has consequences. Guarding your tongue isn't just about politeness; it's about protecting others and maintaining integrity.
The verse doesn't just warn about the talebearer; it tells us what to do about them. Who should you steer clear of?
Beware the Empty Talker
Proverbs 20:19 warns us to 'not associate with a simple babbler.' The original language here describes someone whose lips are always open, someone who can't hold their tongue. They might seem harmless, perhaps even charming, but they are a risk.
The Danger of False Charm
Some commentators highlight that this 'babbler' might even use flattery to draw you in, making you feel comfortable enough to share your own secrets. They use their words to gain access to information they can then spread.
Choose Your Circle Wisely
Wisdom calls us to be discerning. If someone consistently demonstrates a lack of discretion and integrity with the words of others, they are unlikely to be trustworthy with yours. It's a call to protect yourself and your confidences by choosing your companions carefully.
Understand the original words
rakil · Hebrew Noun
The act of speaking maliciously or falsely about others to ruin their reputation, characterized by spreading private information.
pethi · Hebrew Noun/Adjective
A naive person who lacks wisdom, discernment, or moral fortitude, often easily swayed or prone to foolish behavior.
patah · Hebrew Noun
A person who speaks excessively, foolishly, or without restraint, often lacking control over their tongue.
This passage directly echoes our verse, stating that a gossip 'betrays a confidence, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a secret,' highlighting the inherent untrustworthiness of a talebearer.
Leviticus 19:16The Old Testament Law itself warns against going about 'spreading slander among your people,' showing that the prohibition against harmful speech and gossip is deeply rooted in God's commands.
1 Timothy 5:13The Apostle Paul speaks to the New Testament church about young widows who 'learn to be idle, going about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they should not,' illustrating how this same destructive behavior persists.
James 1:26This verse directly addresses the danger of unchecked speech, warning that 'If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue, but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless,' which is precisely the kind of lack of self-control Proverbs 20:19 condemns.
ellicottProverbs 20:19: "He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips."
(19) Flattereth with his lips.— Rather, is open with his lips, cannot keep them shut.
pulpitProverbs 20:19: "He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips."
Verse 19. - He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets. Almost the same proverb occurs in Proverbs 11:13, The gadding gossiper is sure to let out any secret entrusted to him; therefore, it is implied, be careful in what you say to him. Meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips; rather, that openeth wide his lips - that cannot keep his mouth shu…
The verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it points out the surprising connection between revealing secrets and being someone with an open mouth. It suggests that a person who can't keep their lips shut is fundamentally untrustworthy with sensitive information, so steer clear of such babblers.
This verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it connects it directly to the danger of those who "open their mouths wide." Such people can't seem to keep their words contained, and this uncontrolled speech is the very channel through which secrets are revealed, often to their own detriment and the harm of others.
This verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it connects it directly to the danger of those who "open their mouths wide." Such people can't seem to keep their words contained, and this uncontrolled speech is the very channel through which secrets are revealed, often to their own detriment and the harm of others.
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"Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler." — The verse doesn't just warn against gossip; it points out the surprising connection between revealing secrets and being someone with an open mouth. It suggests that a person who can't keep their…
