Proverbs 10:31

¶ The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

The mouth {H6310} of the just {H6662} bringeth forth {H5107} wisdom {H2451}: but the froward {H8419} tongue {H3956} shall be cut out {H3772}.

The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off.

The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out.

The mouth of the righteous bringeth forth wisdom; But the perverse tongue shall be cut off.

Proverbs 10:31 starkly contrasts the nature and outcome of speech from two different types of people: the righteous and the wicked. It highlights the profound impact our words have, reflecting our inner character and leading to vastly different consequences.

Context

This verse is situated within Proverbs chapter 10, which consists primarily of individual proverbs contrasting the wise/righteous with the foolish/wicked. These verses often use parallel or antithetical structures to emphasize the difference between living according to God's ways and living contrary to them. Verse 31 specifically focuses on the output of one's mouth, a recurring theme in Proverbs regarding the power of the tongue.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of Righteous Speech: The words of the just are characterized as bringing forth wisdom. They are beneficial, insightful, and constructive, reflecting a heart aligned with God's truth.
  • The Nature of Wicked Speech: A "froward tongue" belongs to someone perverse, crooked, or deceitful. Their words are harmful, destructive, or contrary to truth and righteousness.
  • Consequences of Speech: Wisdom flows from the righteous mouth, bringing life and understanding. The froward tongue, however, faces judgment or silencing, a metaphor for the ultimate failure and destruction that comes from perverse communication.
  • Character and Communication: The verse implies that one's speech is a direct reflection of their internal character – a righteous person speaks righteously, and a wicked person speaks wickedly.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "just" or "righteous" is tsaddiq (צַדִּיק), referring to someone who is right before God and people. "Wisdom" is chokmah (חָכְמָה), practical skill and discernment for living rightly. The phrase "froward tongue" uses luz (לוּז), meaning to deviate, turn aside, or be perverse. The imagery of the tongue being "cut out" (כָּרַת - karath) is strong, often used for covenant cutting or destruction, signifying a decisive end or judgment upon harmful speech.

Reflection

Proverbs 10:31 challenges us to consider the nature of our own speech. Do our words bring forth wisdom, blessing, and truth? Or are they characterized by perversion, deceit, or harm? The verse serves as a powerful reminder that our communication matters deeply and has lasting consequences, both in this life and ultimately. It encourages believers to cultivate righteous hearts from which wise and beneficial words can flow, recognizing that we will give account for our words.

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.

  • Psalms 37:30

    The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.

  • Proverbs 10:13

    ¶ In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod [is] for the back of him that is void of understanding.

  • 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.

  • Psalms 63:11

    But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.

  • Psalms 120:3

    What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?

  • Psalms 120:4

    Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.

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