Proverbs 12:6

KJV

¶ The words of the wicked [are] to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

KJV (with Strong's)

The words {H1697} of the wicked {H7563} are to lie in wait {H693} for blood {H1818}: but the mouth {H6310} of the upright {H3477} shall deliver {H5337} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush, but the speech of the upright rescues them.

Berean Standard Bible

The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.

American Standard Version

The words of the wicked are of lying in wait for blood; But the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 12:6 presents a stark and profound contrast between the destructive intent embedded in the speech of the wicked and the life-saving power inherent in the words of the upright. It reveals that language is never neutral but is a potent instrument, capable of premeditated harm, even to the point of seeking another's demise, or conversely, of providing protection, rescue, and justice to those in peril. This proverb underscores the deep connection between one's inner character and the outward manifestation of their words, highlighting the ethical responsibility and profound consequences associated with human communication.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 12:6 is situated within the broader wisdom literature of the Old Testament, a genre primarily concerned with imparting practical and theological wisdom for living a righteous life. The book of Proverbs frequently employs **antithetical parallelism**, a literary device where two opposing ideas are placed side-by-side to highlight a moral or theological truth. Chapter 12, in particular, focuses on distinguishing the character and conduct of the righteous from the wicked, with a strong emphasis on the impact of their words and actions. Verses preceding and following Proverbs 12:6 continue this theme, discussing the integrity of the righteous versus the deceit of the wicked (e.g., [Proverbs 12:5](/proverbs/12-5 "Proverbs 12:5 - Righteous Thoughts vs. Wicked Counsel") and [Proverbs 12:7](/proverbs/12-7 "Proverbs 12:7 - The Overthrow of the Wicked")). The proverb functions as a concise moral declaration, revealing that the internal disposition of the heart inevitably shapes the nature and intent of one's speech, echoing the principle found in the New Testament that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks ([Luke 6:45](/luke/6-45 "Luke 6:45 - Good and Evil Treasures of the Heart")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, spoken words carried immense weight and authority. Oaths, blessings, curses, and legal testimonies were not merely abstract concepts but had tangible, often binding, consequences. Reputation, built largely on one's words and actions, was paramount. False witness or slander could lead to severe legal penalties, social ostracization, or even death, particularly in capital cases (e.g., [Deuteronomy 19:16-19](/deuteronomy/19-16 "Deuteronomy 19:16-19 - False Witness Penalties")). The imagery of "lying in wait for blood" evokes the danger of ambush and premeditated violence, drawing a parallel between physical assault and the destructive power of malicious speech. This reflects a cultural understanding where verbal attacks were seen as a form of aggression, capable of destroying a person's standing, livelihood, or even their life, much like a physical assault. The concept of "uprightness" (`yashar`) was highly valued, signifying moral integrity, honesty, and adherence to divine law, which was expected to manifest in truthful and just speech.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 12:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **power of words**, emphasizing that speech is not a neutral act but a moral force with profound consequences for life and death ([Proverbs 18:21](/proverbs/18-21 "Proverbs 18:21 - Life and Death in the Power of the Tongue")). Secondly, it highlights the fundamental **contrast between righteousness and wickedness**, portraying the wicked as those whose internal malice manifests in destructive speech, while the upright are characterized by integrity that produces beneficial and protective words. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that character dictates conduct. Thirdly, the proverb touches upon the theme of **justice and deliverance**, showing how the words of the upright can serve as a means of rescue and protection against the schemes of the wicked, upholding truth and fairness in a world often plagued by deceit.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Words (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This term (H1697) is highly versatile, encompassing not only spoken "words" but also "matters," "things," "affairs," "decrees," and "speech." In Proverbs 12:6, `dâbâr` refers to the utterances, counsel, or statements of the wicked. The breadth of its meaning suggests that it's not just casual talk, but often calculated speech, plans, or intentions that are expressed verbally. The wicked's `dâbâr` is imbued with a sinister purpose, going beyond mere falsehood to active malevolence.
* **Lie in wait (Hebrew, _ʼârab'_):** The verb `ʼârab` (H693) means "to lurk," "to lie in ambush," or "to set a trap." When combined with "for blood," it conjures a vivid image of a predator stealthily waiting for its prey. This signifies that the words of the wicked are not accidental or impulsive, but are premeditated, strategic, and designed to ensnare, harm, or even kill. It implies a deceptive and treacherous intent, where speech is a weapon used to achieve a destructive end.
* **Deliver (Hebrew, _nâtsal'_):** The verb `nâtsal` (H5337) means "to snatch away," "to rescue," "to save," or "to preserve." It implies an active intervention to free someone from danger, harm, or oppression. In this context, the "mouth of the upright" actively intervenes through truthful and just speech to rescue individuals from the malicious plots or accusations instigated by the wicked. It highlights the protective, redemptive, and defensive power of integrity and truth expressed verbally.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood:"** This clause vividly portrays the malevolent nature and ultimate aim of the wicked's communication. Their speech (`dâbâr`) is not idle chatter but a deliberate and calculated instrument (`ʼârab`) designed to inflict severe harm, even death (`dâm`). This "blood" can be literal, referring to inciting violence or murder, or figurative, representing the destruction of reputation, livelihood, or social standing, which in ancient contexts could be tantamount to social death. The wicked's words are a trap, a snare set with predatory intent, aimed at destroying the life or well-being of others.
* **"but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them."** This contrasting clause presents the redemptive and protective power of righteous speech. The "mouth" (`peh`) here is a metonymy for the words and counsel of the upright (`yâshâr`), those characterized by moral integrity, honesty, and justice. Their speech acts as a counterforce to the wicked's destructive designs. It serves to "deliver" (`nâtsal`)—to rescue, save, or snatch away—those who are targeted by the wicked's malicious words. This deliverance can take many forms: exposing lies, defending the innocent, speaking truth in legal proceedings, or offering wise counsel that guides others away from danger.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 12:6 is a masterful example of **Antithetical Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. The verse is divided into two distinct clauses that present opposing ideas, creating a sharp contrast between the wicked and the upright, and their respective uses of speech. This structure effectively highlights the moral dichotomy and the divergent outcomes of their words. The phrase "to lie in wait for blood" employs powerful **Imagery** and **Metaphor**, portraying malicious words as a predatory hunter stalking its victim. This vivid picture emphasizes the premeditated and deadly intent behind the wicked's speech, transforming abstract concepts into tangible threats. Furthermore, the use of "mouth" as a representation of speech or words is a form of **Metonymy**, where a part (the mouth) stands for the whole (the act of speaking and its content). This device succinctly conveys the source and instrument of the upright's deliverance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 12:6 profoundly articulates the biblical understanding of speech as a moral act with spiritual ramifications. It reveals that words are not merely sounds or symbols, but extensions of the heart, reflecting one's inner character and bearing the power of life and death. The theological implication is that God, who is truth and righteousness, values speech that reflects His character—words that build up, protect, and bring justice. Conversely, malicious speech, especially that which seeks to harm or destroy, is an affront to His nature and aligns with the destructive work of evil. This proverb calls believers to a high standard of verbal integrity, recognizing that our words can either participate in God's redemptive work or contribute to the chaos and destruction of sin. It underscores the divine expectation for His people to use their tongues to defend the vulnerable, expose deceit, and speak truth in love, thereby participating in the deliverance of others.

* [Proverbs 18:21](/proverbs/18-21 "Proverbs 18:21 - Life and Death in the Power of the Tongue")
* [Matthew 12:34](/matthew/12-34 "Matthew 12:34-37 - Words Reveal the Heart")
* [James 3:5](/james/3-5 "James 3:5-10 - Taming the Tongue")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 12:6 serves as a timeless mirror for self-examination, urging us to consider the true intent and impact of our own words. In an age saturated with communication, from social media to daily conversations, the temptation to speak carelessly, maliciously, or deceptively is ever-present. This proverb challenges us to cultivate a heart of integrity, knowing that genuine uprightness will naturally manifest in speech that delivers rather than destroys. It calls us to be discerning listeners, recognizing that not all words are benign; some are indeed "lying in wait for blood," designed to sow discord, ruin reputations, or incite harm. Our application, then, is twofold: to guard our own tongues with vigilance, ensuring our words are seasoned with grace and truth, and to courageously use our voices to defend the innocent, expose falsehood, and speak life into situations where darkness and deception prevail. This means actively choosing to be agents of deliverance in our communities, speaking truth even when it is difficult, and standing against the currents of slander and malice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What hidden intentions might be behind some of my own words, even if I don't consciously acknowledge them?**
* **How can I become more discerning in identifying malicious or deceptive speech from others, and what is my responsibility when I encounter it?**
* **In what specific situations can my "mouth of the upright" be used to "deliver" others from harm, injustice, or falsehood?**
* **How does my daily communication reflect either the "words of the wicked" or the "mouth of the upright"?**

### FAQ
**What does "the words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood" mean?**

Answer: This vivid phrase means that the speech of wicked individuals is not random or accidental, but is deliberately calculated and intended to cause severe harm, often akin to murder. "Lying in wait" suggests a premeditated ambush, a deceptive trap. "For blood" signifies a desire for destruction, whether literal physical death, or the metaphorical death of someone's reputation, livelihood, or social standing. It highlights that the wicked use their words as weapons, with a predatory and destructive intent, seeking to ensnare, accuse falsely, or incite violence against others. This concept is echoed in other proverbs that warn against the destructive nature of deceitful tongues, such as [Proverbs 6:16-19](/proverbs/6-16 "Proverbs 6:16-19 - Things the Lord Hates").

**How does this proverb relate to modern communication and digital interactions?**

Answer: Proverbs 12:6 is incredibly relevant to modern communication, especially in the digital age. Just as in ancient times, words online—whether in social media posts, comments, emails, or messages—can be used to "lie in wait for blood." Cyberbullying, doxxing, spreading misinformation, character assassination, and inciting hatred online are all contemporary manifestations of malicious speech designed to harm or destroy. Conversely, the "mouth of the upright" can still deliver in these contexts. Speaking truth, defending victims of online abuse, debunking false narratives, and promoting constructive dialogue are ways that righteous speech can bring deliverance and counter the destructive intent of the wicked. The principle remains: words, regardless of the medium, carry immense power for either destruction or deliverance, as highlighted in passages like [Ephesians 4:29](/ephesians/4-29 "Ephesians 4:29 - Wholesome Speech").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 12:6 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "Upright One" ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ, a Holy and Blameless High Priest")), whose every word was truth and life, utterly devoid of malice or deceit ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinless Life")). In stark contrast, His earthly ministry was constantly assailed by the "words of the wicked," who "lied in wait for blood." The Pharisees and religious leaders continually sought to trap Him in His words ([Matthew 22:15](/matthew/22-15 "Matthew 22:15 - Pharisees Plot to Trap Jesus")), twisting His teachings and ultimately leveling false accusations against Him to secure His crucifixion ([Mark 14:55-59](/mark/14-55 "Mark 14:55-59 - False Witnesses Against Jesus")). Their words were indeed designed to shed His innocent blood. Yet, it was through the "mouth" of Christ—His authoritative teaching, His prophetic declarations, and ultimately His silent submission—that humanity was delivered. His words of grace and truth brought deliverance from sin, death, and the power of the evil one ([John 8:31-32](/john/8-31 "John 8:31-32 - Truth Sets You Free")). Furthermore, His ultimate act of deliverance was not through spoken words alone, but through the shedding of His own blood, which became the means by which all who believe are rescued from eternal condemnation and reconciled to God ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Forgiveness Through Blood")). Thus, Christ perfectly embodies the upright one whose life and sacrificial death, prompted by the wicked's words, ultimately delivered "them"—all who trust in Him—from the ultimate snare of sin and death.

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

Proverbs 14:3

¶ In the mouth of the foolish [is] a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

Jeremiah 5:26

For among my people are found wicked [men]: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.

Proverbs 1:11

If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:

Proverbs 1:19

So [are] the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; [which] taketh away the life of the owners thereof.

Isaiah 59:7

Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.

Esther 7:4

For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king's damage.

Esther 7:6

And Esther said, The adversary and enemy [is] this wicked Haman. Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen.