Proverbs 10:20

Proverbs 10:20 delivers a powerful contrast, characteristic of the book of Proverbs, highlighting the profound difference between the speech and inner character of the righteous and the wicked. It underscores the immense value of words spoken from integrity versus the emptiness of those originating from a corrupted heart.

Context

This verse is part of a larger collection of Solomon's proverbs (beginning in Proverbs 10:1) that frequently employ antithetical parallelism. This literary device places two contrasting ideas side-by-side to emphasize a moral or spiritual truth. In this case, the value of righteous speech is set against the worthlessness of the wicked heart, drawing a clear distinction between the two ways of life.

Key Themes

• The Value of Righteous Speech: The phrase "The tongue of the just is as choice silver" emphasizes the purity, preciousness, and lasting value of words spoken by a righteous person. Such words are not trivial or fleeting; they are refined, true, and beneficial, offering wisdom, encouragement, and truth. Like refined silver, they are free from impurities and hold significant worth.
• The Worthlessness of Wicked Intentions: In stark contrast, "the heart of the wicked is little worth" reveals that the source of their actions and words—their very being and intentions—holds no intrinsic value in God's sight. A wicked heart produces words and deeds that are corrupt, empty, and ultimately destructive, reflecting its own moral bankruptcy.
• Character Determines Communication: This proverb clearly links one's inner character to their outward expression, particularly through speech. A just heart yields valuable words, while a wicked heart produces communication that reflects its emptiness. This aligns with the principle that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" (Matthew 12:34).

Linguistic Insights

• "Choice silver" (Hebrew: kesef nivchar): This phrase signifies silver that has been purified, refined, and is of the highest quality. It's not merely silver, but the best kind, free from dross. This highlights the preciousness and purity of righteous words.
• "Little worth" (Hebrew: m'at yachad): This can be understood as "scarcely anything" or "of little account." It conveys a sense of utter insignificance or worthlessness, emphasizing the profound spiritual and moral emptiness of the wicked heart.

Practical Application

Proverbs 10:20 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today:

• Cultivate a Righteous Heart: Since our words reflect our inner state, the verse encourages us to pursue righteousness and allow God's Spirit to purify our hearts. A heart transformed by God will naturally produce words that are edifying and valuable, reflecting the wisdom of Christ dwelling richly within us.
• Weigh Your Words: It challenges us to consider the quality and impact of our speech. Are our words like "choice silver"—pure, valuable, and uplifting—or are they empty, harmful, or of "little worth"? The power of the tongue to bring life or death is profound.
• Discern Others' Speech: The proverb also provides a framework for discerning the character of others through their words. Listening carefully to what people say, and how they say it, can reveal the true nature of their heart and intentions.

Ultimately, this verse calls us to align our inner being with God's righteousness, so that our speech may consistently reflect the preciousness and truth of His character.