Ecclesiastes 10:12

¶ The words of a wise man's mouth [are] gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

The words {H1697} of a wise man's {H2450} mouth {H6310} are gracious {H2580}; but the lips {H8193} of a fool {H3684} will swallow up {H1104} himself.

The words spoken by the wise bring them favor, but the lips of a fool swallow him up.

The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, but the lips of a fool consume him.

The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

Commentary on Ecclesiastes 10:12

Ecclesiastes 10:12 offers a sharp contrast between the impact of wise and foolish speech, emphasizing the profound consequences of our words. The verse serves as a concise proverb, highlighting a fundamental principle of human interaction and personal destiny.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Ecclesiastes (chapters 9-10) where the Preacher, or Qoheleth, delves into practical observations about wisdom and folly in daily life. After discussing the unpredictability of life and the common fate of all, the text shifts to the practical advantages of wisdom over folly, particularly in public and social spheres. The book often contrasts the temporary and often frustrating realities "under the sun" with the enduring value of wisdom and fearing God. Here, the focus narrows to the immediate and observable effects of one's spoken words.

Meaning and Key Themes

  • The Power of Speech: The verse powerfully asserts that words are not neutral; they carry immense power to either build up or destroy. The wise man's words bring favor and positive outcomes, while the fool's words lead to self-inflicted harm.
  • Wisdom vs. Folly in Communication: A central theme in Ecclesiastes and Proverbs is the distinction between the wise and the foolish. Here, this distinction is applied directly to speech. Wise speech is characterized by grace, thoughtfulness, and prudence, often leading to acceptance and benefit. Foolish speech, by contrast, is reckless, ill-considered, and ultimately self-destructive.
  • Consequences of Words: The phrase "swallow up himself" vividly illustrates that the fool's own words are the instrument of his downfall. This highlights the principle that our speech has direct and often inescapable consequences for our reputation, relationships, and even our destiny.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "gracious" is chen (חֵן), which conveys favor, charm, or pleasantness. It suggests that the words of the wise are not just polite, but are received well, perhaps even bringing favor or benefit to the speaker. They are seasoned with discernment and consideration. The phrase "swallow up himself" comes from the verb bala' (בָּלַע), meaning to swallow, engulf, or consume. It paints a stark picture of the fool's words acting as a self-devouring force, leading to his own ruin or disgrace.

Cross-References and Connections

This verse resonates strongly with themes found throughout the wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly in the Book of Proverbs:

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 10:12 serves as a timeless reminder of the profound impact of our words. For believers today, it encourages us to:

  1. Cultivate Gracious Speech: Strive for words that are thoughtful, kind, edifying, and bring favor, reflecting the wisdom that comes from God. Consider the impact your words will have before you speak.
  2. Guard Against Reckless Talk: Be mindful of the dangers of rash, angry, or foolish words, which can quickly lead to regret, damaged relationships, and personal detriment.
  3. Seek Discernment: Pray for wisdom to know when to speak and when to remain silent, recognizing that silence can sometimes be more prudent than foolish speech.
  4. Understand Consequences: Recognize that our words are not inconsequential; they shape our reality, influence others, and reflect our character.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
  • Colossians 4:6

    Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
  • Luke 4:22

    And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?
  • Proverbs 15:2

    ¶ The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
  • Proverbs 22:11

    ¶ He that loveth pureness of heart, [for] the grace of his lips the king [shall be] his friend.
  • Ephesians 4:29

    Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
  • Proverbs 10:20

    ¶ The tongue of the just [is as] choice silver: the heart of the wicked [is] little worth.
  • Proverbs 10:21

    The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.

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