Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
A word that's "fitly spoken" isn't just about saying the right thing, but about the perfect timing and delivery. It's like a dazzling image of golden fruit displayed in an intricate silver basket – its beauty is amplified by how it's presented, making the message both stunning and profoundly effective.
This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with the power and impact of speech. It follows verses that caution against boasting and emphasizing the importance of taking advice from others. The imagery here, of beautiful golden fruit presented in an ornate silver setting, highlights the value and delight found in words that are well-timed and skillfully delivered.
Have you ever heard someone speak, and the words just flow? They land perfectly, without a hitch, and feel exactly right for the moment. What makes a word have that kind of effortless power?
The Hebrew word for 'fitly spoken' in this verse can be understood as 'upon its wheels.' Imagine something that rolls smoothly and easily, without friction. This suggests words that are delivered with naturalness, speed, and a sense of perfect timing. It’s not just about what you say, but how and when you say it.
Think about it:
What makes a simple fruit so stunning? This verse paints a vivid picture of beauty and value. What does this striking imagery tell us about the worth of well-chosen words?
The comparison to 'apples of gold in a setting of silver' is incredibly rich. It speaks to both the intrinsic value and the exquisite presentation of a timely word. The 'apples of gold' represent the preciousness and beauty of the message itself—perhaps wisdom, encouragement, or truth. The 'setting of silver' suggests the way it's presented: with skill, beauty, and context.
This imagery evokes:
Understand the original words
dāḇār · Hebrew Noun
Refers to speech that is timely, appropriate, and morally upright. It emphasizes the importance of discretion and sensitivity in communication.
ʾōp̄ān · Hebrew Adjective/Participle
Describes something that is well-suited, timely, or presented at the right moment. It conveys the beauty and efficacy of speech when it is perfectly aligned with the circumstances.
This passage describes the beloved finding rest and delight under the shade of an apple tree, likening its fruit to something sweet and desirable, paralleling the pleasantness of a well-spoken word.
Ecclesiastes 3:1The concept of 'a time for everything' directly relates to the 'fitly spoken' aspect of the proverb, emphasizing the importance of season and appropriateness in our words.
Luke 4:22Jesus' words in the synagogue were described as gracious, illustrating how spoken words, when delivered with divine wisdom and timing, captivate and inspire listeners.
Colossians 4:6This verse directly echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 25:11 by advising believers to let their speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, highlighting the value of thoughtful and well-timed communication.
pooleProverbs 25:11: "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
A word fitly spoken, for the matter, and season, and other circumstances of it, is like apples of gold in pictures of silver, which it seems was usual in those times, and was grateful to the eye for the beauty and variety both of the colours and figures, the golden apples appearing through net-work of silver, or being engraven or portrayed upon tablets of silver.
jfbProverbs 25:11: "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
- a word fitly—literally, "quickly," as wheels roll, just in time. The comparison as apples … silver gives a like sense.apples, &c.—either real apples of golden color, in a silver network basket, or imitations on silver embroidery.
A word that's "fitly spoken" isn't just about saying the right thing, but about the perfect timing and delivery. It's like a dazzling image of golden fruit displayed in an intricate silver basket – its beauty is amplified by how it's presented, making the message both stunning and profoundly effective.
This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with the power and impact of speech. It follows verses that caution against boasting and emphasizing the importance of taking advice from others. The imagery here, of beautiful golden fruit presented in an ornate silver setting, highlights the value and delight found in words that are well-timed and skillfully delivered.
This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with the power and impact of speech. It follows verses that caution against boasting and emphasizing the importance of taking advice from others. The imagery here, of beautiful golden fruit presented in an ornate silver setting, highlights the value and delight found in words that are well-timed and skillfully delivered.
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"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver." — A word that's "fitly spoken" isn't just about saying the right thing, but about the perfect timing and delivery. It's like a dazzling image of golden fruit displayed in an intricate silver basket – i…