Proverbs 12:22

KJV

¶ Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.

KJV (with Strong's)

Lying {H8267} lips {H8193} are abomination {H8441} to the LORD {H3068}: but they that deal {H6213} truly {H530} are his delight {H7522}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Lying lips are an abomination to ADONAI, but those who deal faithfully are his delight.

Berean Standard Bible

Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.

American Standard Version

Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; But they that deal truly are his delight.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 12:22 delivers a profound ethical and theological statement, unequivocally declaring that deceitful speech is utterly detestable to the LORD, while those who act and speak with integrity and faithfulness are the source of His profound pleasure. This verse encapsulates a foundational principle of biblical wisdom, contrasting the nature and outcomes of falsehood with those of truth, and revealing God's own character as one who is inherently truthful and delights in the genuine.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 12 is a chapter rich in antithetical parallelism, consistently contrasting the righteous and the wicked, their actions, and their ultimate destinies. Verses immediately preceding and following [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips and God's Delight") reinforce this theme. For instance, [Proverbs 12:19](/proverbs/12-19 "Proverbs 12:19 - Truthful Lips Endure") states, "The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment," directly preceding our verse and setting the stage for its strong declaration. Following it, [Proverbs 12:23](/proverbs/12-23 "Proverbs 12:23 - Prudent Man Conceals Knowledge") continues to discuss the nature of speech and knowledge, emphasizing prudence and the avoidance of foolish displays. The chapter as a whole serves as a manual for righteous living, with particular emphasis on the power and consequence of words, both spoken and unspoken.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East, like any society, grappled with issues of truth and deception. In a communal, honor-shame culture, reputation and trust were paramount. Oral communication was the primary mode of information transfer, making the reliability of one's word incredibly important for social cohesion, commerce, and justice. False witness in legal settings, for example, could have devastating consequences, as seen in various Old Testament laws ([Exodus 23:1](/exodus/23-1 "Exodus 23:1 - False Report") or [Deuteronomy 19:16-19](/deuteronomy/19-16 "Deuteronomy 19:16-19 - False Witness Punished")). The wisdom literature, including Proverbs, often reflects these societal concerns, offering divine guidance that transcends mere social convention, rooting ethical behavior in the very character of God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and biblical theology. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Truth vs. Deceit**, presenting truthfulness not merely as a virtue but as a divine imperative, while falsehood is an affront to God's nature. It also highlights **God's Moral Character**, revealing Him as a God who is holy and just, utterly repulsed by deceit and drawn to integrity. This is consistent with the broader biblical portrayal of God's unchanging nature, as seen in passages like [Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God is Not a Man That He Should Lie"). Furthermore, the verse speaks to the **Power and Consequence of Speech**, demonstrating that words are not neutral; they either honor God and build up, or they dishonor Him and tear down. Finally, it touches on **Righteousness and Integrity**, defining genuine righteousness not just by adherence to rules, but by a heart that seeks to "deal truly" in all its interactions, reflecting the very heart of God's covenant relationship with His people, as explored in [Psalm 15](/psalms/15 "Psalm 15 - Who May Dwell on Your Holy Hill?").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lying (Hebrew, _sheqer'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to deceive" or "to be false," denotes an untruth, a sham, or a falsehood. It encompasses not just outright lies but also deceitful intentions or actions that are not genuine. When applied to "lips," it emphasizes the verbal expression of this untruth, highlighting the active propagation of deception.
* **Abomination (Hebrew, _tôwʻêbah'_):** This is a very strong word in Hebrew, signifying something utterly disgusting or abhorrent, particularly in a moral or religious sense. It is often used for practices that are anathema to God, such as idolatry, certain sexual sins, or unjust weights and measures. Its use here reveals the depth of God's revulsion towards lying, placing it on par with other grave offenses against His holy character and moral order.
* **Truly (Hebrew, _ʼĕmûwnâh'_):** This word, related to "amen" and "faith," literally means "firmness." Figuratively, it conveys security, moral fidelity, faithfulness, and truth. It speaks not just to speaking facts, but to living with integrity, reliability, and steadfastness. Those who "deal truly" are those whose words and actions are consistent with truth and faithfulness, reflecting a character rooted in God's own trustworthiness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Lying lips are abomination to the LORD":** This clause establishes a direct and severe condemnation of deceitful speech. "Lying lips" represent any form of communication that is false, deceptive, or insincere. The use of "abomination" (tôwʻêbah) signifies God's intense detestation and moral revulsion. It is not merely disapproval but a profound rejection of that which is contrary to His very nature. The phrase "to the LORD" (Yᵉhôvâh) emphasizes that this is not just a human ethical standard, but a divine decree rooted in the character of the covenant God of Israel.
* **"but they that deal truly are his delight.":** This second clause stands in stark antithetical parallelism to the first, presenting the positive counterpart. "They that deal truly" refers to individuals whose words and actions are characterized by faithfulness, integrity, and truthfulness (ʼĕmûwnâh). This isn't just about avoiding lies, but actively living out truth. Such a life, marked by genuine integrity, brings "delight" (râtsôwn) to the LORD. This term signifies God's favor, good pleasure, and acceptance, indicating that truthful living aligns with His will and brings Him profound satisfaction.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Proverbs 12:22 is **Antithetical Parallelism**. This structure presents two contrasting ideas or statements that highlight the difference between them, often emphasizing the consequences of each. Here, "lying lips" are contrasted with "they that deal truly," and the consequence of the former ("abomination to the LORD") is set against the consequence of the latter ("his delight"). This sharp contrast serves to underscore the moral gravity of deceit and the profound value of truthfulness in God's eyes. Additionally, there is an element of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human emotions of "abomination" and "delight" to God, making His moral preferences relatable and emphasizing the personal nature of His relationship with humanity. The verse also employs **Synecdoche** by using "lips" to represent the entirety of one's speech and the character it reveals.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 12:22 is a foundational statement about God's character and His expectation for human communication, deeply rooted in the broader biblical narrative of truth and covenant. God Himself is presented as the ultimate truth-teller, incapable of lying ([Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God is Not a Man That He Should Lie"); [Titus 1:2](/titus/1-2 "Titus 1:2 - God Cannot Lie")). Therefore, truthfulness in humanity is not merely a social virtue but an imitation of the divine. Lying, conversely, is associated with the very nature of evil and rebellion against God, tracing its origins to the "father of lies" ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil, Father of Lies")). The call to "deal truly" extends beyond mere verbal accuracy to encompass a life of integrity, faithfulness, and reliability, reflecting the covenant loyalty (hesed) that God desires from His people.

* [Proverbs 6:16-19](/proverbs/6-16 "Proverbs 6:16-19 - Seven Things God Hates") - This passage lists "a lying tongue" and "a false witness that speaketh lies" among the seven things that are an abomination to the LORD, reinforcing the severity of deceit.
* [Zechariah 8:16](/zechariah/8-16 "Zechariah 8:16 - Speak Truth to One Another") - This prophetic exhortation commands, "Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates."
* [Ephesians 4:25](/ephesians/4-25 "Ephesians 4:25 - Put Away Lying") - Paul urges believers to "put away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another," linking truthfulness to the unity of the body of Christ.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 12:22 serves as a powerful mirror, inviting us to examine the integrity of our own speech and actions. In an age saturated with misinformation, manipulative rhetoric, and the temptation to present curated versions of ourselves, this verse calls us back to a fundamental biblical ethic: truthfulness is not optional; it is essential to living in alignment with God's character. Recognizing that "lying lips are abomination to the LORD" should instill a profound reverence for truth and a deep conviction to eradicate all forms of deceit from our lives—whether in casual conversations, business dealings, online interactions, or even in the quiet thoughts we entertain. Conversely, the promise that "they that deal truly are his delight" offers immense encouragement. It reminds us that our commitment to integrity, even when it is difficult or costly, is seen and cherished by God, bringing Him pleasure and drawing us into deeper fellowship with Him. Our words, therefore, become a powerful testimony to the God of truth, shaping our character and influencing the world around us for good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might "lying lips" subtly manifest, even if I don't consider them outright lies (e.g., exaggeration, omission, half-truths, misleading impressions)?**
* **How does understanding God's "abomination" of lying and His "delight" in truthfulness impact my motivation to cultivate integrity?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to "deal truly" more consistently in my relationships, work, and online presence?**
* **How does a commitment to truthfulness contribute to my witness for Christ in a world often characterized by deceit?**

### FAQ
**Why is lying considered such a severe "abomination" to the LORD?**

Answer: The term "abomination" (Hebrew: *tôwʻêbah*) is used in Scripture for things that are utterly detestable to God, often because they violate His holy character or disrupt the moral order He established. Lying is an abomination because God Himself is the God of truth ([Deuteronomy 32:4](/deuteronomy/32-4 "Deuteronomy 32:4 - God of Truth")), and His very nature is truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Therefore, lying is a direct contradiction of His character and an assault on the foundation of trust necessary for all righteous relationships, both human and divine. It is also associated with the devil, who is described as the "father of lies" ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil, Father of Lies")), making it inherently antithetical to God's kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 12:22 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is not merely a truth-teller but the very embodiment of Truth itself, declaring, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Unlike "lying lips" which are an abomination to the Father, Jesus's entire life, ministry, and sacrifice were characterized by perfect truthfulness and unwavering integrity. He "dealt truly" in every word and deed, perfectly reflecting the Father's character and delighting Him in every respect ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Voice at Jesus' Baptism")). His words were always "spirit and life" ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - Words of Spirit and Life")), and He was "without sin" ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")), meaning no falsehood ever crossed His lips. Through His atoning work, believers are not only forgiven for their past deceptions but are also given the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Guides")), to empower them to "put off the old man... and... put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness" ([Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Putting Off the Old Man")). Thus, in Christ, we are transformed from those whose lips might have been an abomination into those who, by His grace, can increasingly "deal truly" and bring delight to the LORD.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 5:6

Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.

Revelation 22:15

For without [are] dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

Proverbs 11:20

¶ They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.

Proverbs 6:16

These six [things] doth the LORD hate: yea, seven [are] an abomination unto him:

Proverbs 6:17

A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

Jeremiah 9:24

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD.

Isaiah 9:15

The ancient and honourable, he [is] the head; and the prophet that teacheth lies, he [is] the tail.