Proverbs 12:22

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Proverbs 12:22 (KJV): ¶ Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.

Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for living a righteous life according to God's principles. Chapter 12 contrasts the ways of the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the outcomes of their actions and character. This verse specifically addresses the importance of truthful speech and integrity in contrast to deceit.

Key Themes

  • Truth vs. Deceit: The verse sharply contrasts lying and truth-telling. Lying is presented as something deeply offensive to God, while truthfulness is pleasing to Him.
  • God's Character: It reveals God's nature as one who values truth and despises falsehood. His reaction is not mere disapproval but strong detestation ("abomination").
  • The Power of Words: Our speech is not neutral; it either aligns with God's character and brings delight or opposes it and is an abomination.
  • Integrity and Righteousness: Dealing truly encompasses more than just avoiding lies; it speaks to a life of integrity and faithfulness, which is the mark of those who are righteous in God's sight.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "abomination" is tow'ebah, a strong term often used for things utterly detestable to God, such as idolatry and certain immoral practices. This emphasizes how seriously God views dishonesty. The phrase "deal truly" comes from a root related to faithfulness and truth (like 'emunah), suggesting not just speaking truth occasionally, but living and interacting with integrity and reliability.

Related Scriptures

This principle is echoed throughout Scripture. The list of things God hates in Proverbs 6:16-19 includes a lying tongue and a false witness. Jesus identifies himself as the way, the truth, and the life, underscoring the divine nature of truth. The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to put away lying and speak truth to one another.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse is a clear call to honesty in all areas of life – in business, relationships, and daily interactions. Recognizing that lying is an "abomination" to the Lord should motivate us to cultivate integrity and truthfulness in our speech. Conversely, striving to "deal truly" brings us into alignment with God's character and is a source of His delight. Our words matter, and they should reflect the truth that is in Christ Jesus.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 5:6 (12 votes)

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

  • Revelation 22:15 (11 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 11:20 (11 votes)

    ¶ 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 (9 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 6:17 (9 votes)

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

  • Jeremiah 9:24 (7 votes)

    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 (6 votes)

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