Proverbs 16:27

Proverbs 16:27 delivers a stark warning about the character and destructive impact of an ungodly person, particularly through their speech. It paints a vivid picture of someone actively seeking to cause harm and whose words ignite ruin.

Context

This proverb fits squarely within the book of Proverbs' broader emphasis on wisdom versus folly, and the profound impact of one's words and character. It’s part of a collection of sayings that guide listeners toward righteous living and away from destructive paths. The book often contrasts the righteous and the wicked, and here, the focus is on the wicked person's active malevolence and the verbal damage they inflict.

Key Themes

• The Intentionality of Evil: The phrase "diggeth up evil" suggests a deliberate, active pursuit of harm. It's not accidental mischief but a concerted effort to find or create trouble, much like one might dig for treasure or water. This ungodly person is proactive in malice, seeking out opportunities to sow discord or inflict pain, even if it means concocting falsehoods.
• The Destructive Power of Speech: The second part of the verse, "in his lips there is as a burning fire," powerfully illustrates the devastating effect of the ungodly man's words. Like a wildfire, their speech can rapidly spread, consuming reputations, relationships, and peace. This imagery underscores the danger of gossip, slander, lies, and divisive words. For a similar warning about the tongue's potential, consider James 3:6, which also describes the tongue as a fire.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "diggeth up" is ḥāp̄ar (חָפַר), which literally means "to dig," "to search out," or "to explore." In this context, it conveys the idea of actively seeking out or even fabricating evil. It implies a premeditated effort to uncover or create mischief. The phrase "burning fire" translates 'ēš bōʿērāh (אֵשׁ בֹּעֵרָה), emphasizing the intensely destructive and consuming nature of their words, which can spread quickly and leave devastation in their wake.

Reflection and Application

Proverbs 16:27 serves as both a warning and a call to discernment. It urges us to:

• Guard Our Tongues: We are reminded of the immense power of our words. Are our words constructive or destructive? Do we use our speech to build up or tear down? This verse prompts self-examination about the content and intent behind our communication, encouraging us to seek wisdom for our speech.
• Identify Destructive Influence: The proverb helps us recognize individuals whose speech is consistently negative, malicious, or divisive. Such people actively "dig up evil" and their words are like a "burning fire." Wisdom dictates that we exercise caution and discernment in our interactions with them, protecting ourselves and others from the damage they inflict. The principle here aligns with warnings against associating with those who lead astray, as seen in Psalm 1:1 regarding the counsel of the ungodly.
• Cultivate Righteous Speech: In contrast to the ungodly, believers are called to speak words that are gracious, truthful, and edifying, reflecting the character of God (see Ephesians 4:29 for guidance on wholesome speech).

Ultimately, this proverb highlights the profound connection between one's inner character ("ungodly man") and the outward expression of that character, particularly through speech. It's a timeless reminder that words carry immense power, capable of great good or profound harm, and that a truly wise person understands and controls their tongue.