TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 17:4.
Note, 1. Those that design to do ill support themselves by falsehood and lying: A wicked doer gives ear, with a great deal of pleasure, to false lips, that will justify him in the ill he does, to those that aim to make public disturbances, catch greedily at libels, and false stories, that defame the government and the administration. 2. Those that take the liberty to tell lies take a pleasure in hearing them told: A liar gives heed to a malicious backbiting tongue, that he may have something to graft his lies upon, and with which to give them some colour of truth and so to support them. Sinners will strengthen one another's hands; and those show that they are bad themselves who court the acquaintance and need the assistance of those that are bad.
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Summary
Proverbs 17:4 offers a profound and sobering insight into the moral gravitation of human character, asserting that individuals inclined towards wickedness are inherently receptive to deceitful and destructive speech. It posits a principle of moral resonance, where those who practice evil readily embrace falsehood, and those who habitually lie are quick to listen to and accept corrupting words. This proverb serves as a stark warning about the self-perpetuating nature of moral decay, illustrating how a compromised heart finds affinity with untruth and mischief, thereby reinforcing its own unrighteousness.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 17:4 is situated within the broader "Solomonic collections" (Proverbs 10:1-22:16), a section predominantly characterized by individual, pithy proverbs that often employ parallel structures to convey wisdom. This particular verse utilizes synonymous parallelism, a common Hebrew poetic device where the second line ("and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue") reiterates and reinforces the truth presented in the first line ("A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips"). This literary technique serves to emphasize the core message: the inherent connection between a person's moral disposition and the type of speech they are drawn to. The immediate verses in Proverbs 17 frequently deal with themes of integrity, justice, and the consequences of character, such as the testing of hearts by the Lord (Proverbs 17:3) or the folly of a perverted tongue (Proverbs 17:20). This verse thus fits seamlessly into the broader discourse on moral discernment and the formation of character within the book.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Book of Proverbs emerged from the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, which highly valued practical instruction for living a good and successful life, deeply rooted in the fear of the Lord. In ancient Israelite society, oral communication was paramount, and the spoken word carried immense weight, shaping reputation, communal harmony, and even legal outcomes. The "gate" of the city, where elders and judges convened, was often the place of public discourse and judgment, underscoring the communal impact of words and the necessity of discerning truth. Therefore, the nature of one's speech, and equally, one's receptivity to the speech of others, was a matter of significant moral and social concern. Proverbs like this one functioned as foundational ethical teachings, passed down through generations, to guide individuals in navigating a complex social world where discerning truth from falsehood was crucial for personal well-being and the flourishing of the community.
Key Themes
Proverbs 17:4 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Proverbs and biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of moral affinity, suggesting that character dictates receptivity; evil individuals are drawn to and validate evil speech. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). Secondly, the verse highlights the danger of deception and corrupting influences. It warns not only against speaking falsehood but also against the perilous act of giving ear to it, implying that such receptivity can further entrench one in wickedness. This resonates with warnings throughout Proverbs against companionship with fools or wicked individuals (Proverbs 13:20). Finally, the proverb implicitly emphasizes the importance of discernment and character formation. By exposing the natural inclination of the wicked towards lies, it calls the wise to cultivate a heart that loves truth and righteousness, thereby making them resistant to "false lips" and "naughty tongues." This pursuit of wisdom and discernment is a central pillar of the entire book, beginning with the instruction to "fear the Lord" (Proverbs 1:7).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From a primitive root meaning "to spoil" or "to make good for nothing," this term describes someone who is morally corrupt, actively engaged in evil, or whose character is fundamentally bad. It points to an inherent disposition towards wrongdoing, not merely an occasional lapse, but a pervasive state of being that is destructive or harmful.
This word, derived from a root suggesting "to come to naught," signifies "nothingness," "trouble," "vanity," or "wickedness." When applied to "lips," it denotes speech that is deceitful, empty, worthless, or inherently evil, leading to affliction or trouble. It implies speech that lacks substance, truth, or moral integrity.
From a sense of "eagerly coveting and rushing upon," this term implies desire, but also ruin, calamity, iniquity, or mischief. A "naughty tongue" is therefore not merely mischievous but speaks words that are destructive, harmful, or lead to ruin and moral decay. It describes speech that actively promotes or causes trouble and wickedness.
Verse Breakdown
"A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips;"
This clause establishes a direct correlation between an individual's moral character and their receptivity to deceit. A "wicked doer" (one whose actions and disposition are inherently evil) is naturally inclined to "give heed" (to listen attentively, to pay attention, and by implication, to believe or embrace) "false lips" (speech that is deceptive, empty, or harmful). This suggests a moral resonance where a corrupt heart finds comfort, validation, or utility in falsehood, perhaps because it aligns with their own desires or intentions, further entrenching them in their wickedness.
"and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue."
This second clause reinforces the first through synonymous parallelism, deepening the insight. A "liar" (one who habitually speaks untruths, whose character is marked by deceit) is predisposed to "give ear" (to listen and accept, to be open to) a "naughty tongue" (a tongue that speaks words leading to ruin, iniquity, or mischief). The proverb highlights that those who traffic in lies are themselves susceptible to destructive and corrupting speech, demonstrating a self-perpetuating cycle of moral decay where internal corruption attracts external corruption, validating and amplifying harmful narratives.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 17:4 primarily employs Synonymous Parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, where the second line ("and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue") reiterates and reinforces the idea expressed in the first line ("A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips"). This repetition serves to emphasize the core truth about the natural affinity between corrupt character and deceptive or destructive speech, driving the point home through restatement. The verse also utilizes Metonymy, where "lips" and "tongue" stand in for the speech itself, highlighting the physical instruments through which falsehood and mischief are conveyed and received. Furthermore, the proverb illustrates a principle of Moral Gravitation, suggesting that one's internal moral disposition dictates the external influences and types of communication one is drawn to and receptive of, implying a spiritual law of "like attracts like" in the realm of truth and falsehood.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This proverb speaks to the profound biblical theme of the heart's condition as the wellspring of life and the determinant of one's choices and associations. It reveals that spiritual and moral health is not merely about external actions but about the internal disposition that shapes our receptivity to truth and falsehood. A heart that is not committed to righteousness will naturally gravitate towards and find comfort in lies and destructive words, perpetuating a cycle of sin and deception. Conversely, a heart cultivated in truth and wisdom will instinctively recoil from such influences, seeking instead that which is pure and edifying. This principle underscores the importance of guarding one's heart above all else, for "from it flow the springs of life," as articulated in Proverbs 4:23. The proverb thus serves as a theological warning about the insidious nature of internal corruption, which not only manifests in wicked deeds but also in a dangerous affinity for the very words that perpetuate evil.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 17:4 challenges us to engage in deep introspection about our own spiritual and moral receptivity. In a world saturated with information, opinions, and narratives, to what voices do we "give heed" and "give ear"? If we find ourselves consistently drawn to gossip, negativity, cynical viewpoints, divisive rhetoric, or outright falsehoods, this proverb suggests that such a preference may be a symptom of a deeper issue within our own hearts. It calls us to cultivate a profound love for truth, integrity, and righteousness, which will naturally make us less susceptible to "false lips" and "naughty tongues." This involves intentional discernment in our media consumption, our choice of companions, and even the thoughts we entertain. By actively pursuing truth and aligning our hearts with God's Word, we build a spiritual resistance to the corrupting influences that seek to lead us astray, enabling us to live lives that reflect integrity, wisdom, and the character of Christ. This proverb serves as a vital reminder that our spiritual diet profoundly impacts our spiritual health.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "naughty tongue" mean in this context?
In the King James Version, "naughty" carries an older meaning, derived from the Hebrew word havvâh (H1942), which signifies something worthless, bad, or leading to ruin, calamity, or mischief. Therefore, a "naughty tongue" is not merely mischievous in a playful sense but refers to speech that is evil, destructive, harmful, or brings about trouble and moral decay. It's a tongue that speaks words that are corrupting and lead to negative consequences, aligning with the "false lips" mentioned in the first part of the verse. It denotes speech that is morally perverse and actively seeks to cause harm or lead others astray.
Why are "wicked doers" and "liars" so receptive to deceitful speech?
The proverb suggests a principle of moral affinity or "like attracts like." A "wicked doer" (one whose character is inherently corrupt and whose actions are evil) finds a natural resonance with "false lips" because deceit often serves their wicked intentions or provides validation for their corrupt worldview. Similarly, a "liar" (one who habitually practices untruth) is comfortable with and drawn to a "naughty tongue" because it aligns with their own deceptive nature. Their internal disposition makes them susceptible to, and even desirous of, external influences that reinforce their unrighteousness. This is a profound spiritual truth: the heart's condition determines what it seeks and accepts, as indicated in passages like Jeremiah 17:9, which speaks of the deceitfulness of the human heart.
How does this proverb apply to modern life, especially with digital communication?
Proverbs 17:4 is profoundly relevant today, perhaps more so than ever, given the pervasive nature of digital communication and the ease with which misinformation, disinformation, and destructive speech can spread. We are constantly bombarded with "lips" and "tongues" through social media, news feeds, podcasts, and various online platforms. This proverb calls us to exercise extreme discernment. If we find ourselves consistently drawn to sensationalism, conspiracy theories, divisive rhetoric, or content that promotes hatred and falsehood, it may be a sign that our own hearts are becoming desensitized to truth or are already inclined towards negativity. It urges us to actively seek out and "give heed" to voices of truth, wisdom, and integrity, and to cultivate a love for what is true, noble, and pure, as exhorted in Philippians 4:8. This proverb serves as a timeless warning about the dangers of unchecked receptivity to corrupting words, regardless of the medium.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 17:4, with its stark portrayal of the wicked's affinity for falsehood, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person of Jesus Christ. While the proverb describes humanity's fallen inclination to embrace deceit, Christ stands as the embodiment of absolute Truth, the very "Word made flesh" (John 1:14). He consistently exposed the "false lips" and "naughty tongues" of the religious leaders of His day, revealing their hypocrisy and the emptiness of their words, which were often rooted in self-righteousness rather than genuine devotion to God (Matthew 23:27-28). Jesus declared Himself to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), offering a radical alternative to the cycle of deception described in Proverbs. Through His atoning sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, believers are given a new heart, one that is no longer inclined to "give heed to false lips" but is instead regenerated to love and discern truth (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Christ not only exposes the darkness of lies but empowers His followers to live as "children of light," speaking truth and resisting the deceptive influences of the world, ultimately reflecting His own character of perfect integrity and divine truth (Ephesians 5:8-9). In Christ, the pattern of the wicked's moral gravitation is broken, replaced by a spiritual hunger for righteousness and a divine discernment that enables believers to cling to truth.