Proverbs 21:23

KJV

¶ Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whoso keepeth {H8104} his mouth {H6310} and his tongue {H3956} keepeth {H8104} his soul {H5315} from troubles {H6869}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

Berean Standard Bible

He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress.

American Standard Version

Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue Keepeth his soul from troubles.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 21:23 profoundly asserts that diligent self-control over one's speech is a foundational principle for a life free from unnecessary distress. By actively guarding what is spoken from the mouth and articulated by the tongue, an individual safeguards their inner peace, reputation, and overall well-being, thereby preventing a multitude of self-inflicted difficulties and afflictions. This proverb encapsulates a core tenet of biblical wisdom, highlighting the direct correlation between disciplined communication and a peaceful existence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 21 is a collection of individual, pithy sayings, typical of the wisdom literature found in the Book of Proverbs. While not forming a continuous narrative, these proverbs often cluster around common themes, offering practical guidance for righteous living. This particular verse, Proverbs 21:23, fits seamlessly into a broader emphasis on the power and consequences of speech that permeates the book. It immediately follows proverbs discussing the Lord's scrutiny of motives (Proverbs 21:2) and the importance of justice and mercy (Proverbs 21:3). The theme of speech control is a recurring motif, appearing in various forms throughout Proverbs, underscoring its critical role in the wise person's conduct.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Proverbs reflects the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, though uniquely rooted in Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. In a society where oral communication was paramount and reputation was intrinsically tied to one's words, the emphasis on controlled speech was highly practical. Words carried significant weight, capable of building or destroying relationships, establishing or ruining one's standing in the community, and even influencing legal outcomes. The cultural understanding of "troubles" (Hebrew: *tsârâh*) encompassed not just internal anguish but also external adversities, social ostracization, and legal entanglements, all of which could easily arise from careless or malicious speech. The proverb thus offered vital instruction for navigating social dynamics and maintaining societal harmony within the Israelite community.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 21:23 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Book of Proverbs. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Self-Control and Discipline**, particularly as applied to the tongue. This discipline is presented not as a burden but as a pathway to **Wisdom and Prudence**, distinguishing the wise from the foolish (compare with the warnings against the talkative fool in [Proverbs 10:8](/proverbs/10-8 "Proverbs 10:8 - The Wise and the Foolish")). It also highlights the theme of **Consequences of Actions**, specifically linking speech to either peace or "troubles." The proverb implicitly teaches **Personal Responsibility**, emphasizing that individuals are accountable for their words and their resultant impact on their "soul" (or inner life and well-being). This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that words are not neutral but possess immense power, capable of bringing [life or death](/proverbs/18-21 "Proverbs 18:21 - The Power of the Tongue").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Keepeth (Hebrew, _shâmar'_):** This verb, used twice in the verse, signifies far more than passive retention. It means "to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc." It implies active watchfulness, diligent preservation, and careful oversight. In the context of speech, it suggests a deliberate, conscious effort to control, filter, and restrain one's words, much like a sentry guards a city or a shepherd guards his flock. It's a proactive measure to prevent harm.
* **Mouth (Hebrew, _peh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to blow," *peh* refers to the physical mouth, but very commonly, and especially in wisdom literature, it functions as a **metonymy** for speech itself. It represents the source and instrument of verbal utterance. The instruction to "keep" the mouth is therefore an injunction to control the very origin point of spoken words, encompassing not just the tongue's movements but the thoughts and intentions that precede speech.
* **Troubles (Hebrew, _tsârâh'_):** This feminine noun literally denotes "tightness" or "narrowness," and figuratively, "distress," "anguish," or "tribulation." It describes a constricted, difficult, or painful situation. The "troubles" avoided by guarded speech can manifest as interpersonal conflicts, damaged reputations, legal difficulties, emotional distress, or a general lack of peace. The word paints a vivid picture of the uncomfortable and painful circumstances that unchecked speech often precipitates.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue":** This opening clause identifies the subject of the proverb as anyone who exercises diligent self-control over their verbal expressions. The repetition of "mouth and tongue" emphasizes the totality of spoken communication, from the initial impulse to the final articulation. "Keepeth" (Hebrew: *shâmar*) denotes an active, intentional, and vigilant guarding, implying a conscious decision to filter and restrain words before they are uttered. It's not merely silence, but a wise and discerning management of speech.
* **"keepeth his soul from troubles":** This second clause presents the profound benefit and consequence of the action described in the first. The "soul" (Hebrew: *nephesh*) here refers to the whole person—their inner being, life, spirit, and well-being. By guarding their speech, an individual protects their entire self from "troubles" (Hebrew: *tsârâh*), which are various forms of distress, adversity, and anguish. This protection extends to one's reputation, relationships, peace of mind, and even physical safety, illustrating that many of life's difficulties are direct results of uncontrolled or unwise words.

#### Literary Devices
The proverb employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Parallelism** is evident in the balanced structure, where the action of "keeping the mouth and tongue" directly parallels the outcome of "keeping the soul from troubles," establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship. This is a form of **synthetic parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first. **Metonymy** is powerfully used, as "mouth and tongue" stand in for the broader concept of speech or verbal communication. The physical instruments represent the act itself. Furthermore, the proverb highlights a direct **Cause and Effect** relationship: disciplined speech (the cause) leads to the avoidance of distress and adversity (the effect). This straightforward logical connection makes the wisdom immediately accessible and actionable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 21:23 resonates deeply with the broader biblical emphasis on the sacredness and power of human speech, reflecting the divine attribute of speaking creation into existence. Just as God's Word is creative and authoritative, human words, though fallen, retain immense power for good or ill. This proverb underscores that wisdom, from a biblical perspective, is not merely intellectual knowledge but the practical application of divine truth to daily living, particularly in the realm of communication. It connects to the theme of stewardship—we are stewards not only of our resources and time but also of our words, which can either bless or curse, build up or tear down. The "troubles" averted are often those that disrupt shalom (peace, wholeness), a central concept in biblical theology, suggesting that wise speech contributes to the flourishing of individuals and communities in alignment with God's design.

* [Proverbs 13:3](/proverbs/13-3 "Proverbs 13:3 - Guarding the Mouth Preserves Life")
* [James 1:26](/james/1-26 "James 1:26 - Bridling the Tongue as True Religion")
* [Matthew 12:36-37](/matthew/12-36 "Matthew 12:36-37 - Account for Every Idle Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 21:23 offers a timeless and profoundly practical challenge for every believer: to exercise intentional, vigilant control over our words. In a world saturated with instant communication, social media, and often unfiltered opinions, the temptation to speak impulsively, reactively, or carelessly is ever-present. This proverb calls us to pause, to consider the potential impact of our words before they leave our lips. It reminds us that much of the strife, misunderstanding, regret, and relational brokenness we experience stems directly from unbridled speech—words spoken in anger, gossip shared thoughtlessly, criticisms delivered harshly, or promises made lightly. By cultivating a habit of mindful communication, asking ourselves if our words are true, kind, necessary, and helpful, we actively participate in safeguarding our own peace, preserving our reputation, and fostering healthier relationships. This discipline is not about silence for silence's sake, but about speaking with wisdom, grace, and discernment, thereby avoiding a myriad of self-inflicted "troubles" and living a life marked by greater tranquility and integrity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life (e.g., family, work, online interactions) do you find it most challenging to "keep your mouth and tongue"?**
* **Can you recall a time when unguarded speech led to significant "troubles" for you or others? What lessons did you learn from that experience?**
* **What practical steps can you implement this week to become more intentional and prayerful about the words you speak?**
* **How does the concept of "keeping your soul from troubles" motivate you to exercise greater discipline in your communication?**

### FAQ
**Does "keeping the mouth and tongue" mean I should never speak my mind or express my opinions?**

Answer: No, "keeping the mouth and tongue" does not advocate for absolute silence or suppression of genuine expression. Instead, it emphasizes **discernment, intentionality, and self-control** in speech. The Hebrew word *shâmar* ("keepeth") implies active guarding and protection, not passive withholding. It means to think before you speak, to consider the potential impact of your words, and to choose words that are constructive, truthful, and appropriate for the situation. The Bible encourages speaking truth (e.g., [Ephesians 4:15](/ephesians/4-15 "Ephesians 4:15 - Speaking Truth in Love")), offering encouragement (e.g., [Ephesians 4:29](/ephesians/4-29 "Ephesians 4:29 - Edifying Speech")), and even rebuking when necessary (e.g., [Proverbs 27:5-6](/proverbs/27-5 "Proverbs 27:5-6 - Open Rebuke is Better")). The goal is to avoid the "troubles" that arise from careless, malicious, or foolish speech, thereby preserving your "soul" or overall well-being. It's about wise speech, not no speech.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 21:23, with its call to guard the mouth and tongue to avoid troubles, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential example of one who perfectly "kept His mouth and tongue," not to avoid personal troubles (for He willingly embraced the ultimate trouble of the cross for our sake), but to perfectly fulfill the Father's will and bring salvation. The New Testament consistently portrays Jesus as speaking with unparalleled wisdom, grace, and authority, never uttering a careless or ill-advised word. His words were always "full of grace and truth" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Even when reviled, He "did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously" ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). His perfect control over His speech, even in the face of immense provocation, prevented unnecessary "troubles" in the sense of sin or error, and instead brought about the greatest good—reconciliation with God. For believers, Christ is not only the model for disciplined speech but also the source of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to bridle our tongues and speak words that build up, rather than tear down, leading us into a life of greater peace and conformity to His image ([James 3:2](/james/3-2 "James 3:2 - The Tongue as a Bridle")).

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 13:3

¶ He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: [but] he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

Proverbs 18:21

¶ Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

Proverbs 17:27

¶ He that hath knowledge spareth his words: [and] a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

Proverbs 17:28

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: [and] he that shutteth his lips [is esteemed] a man of understanding.

James 1:26

If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.

Proverbs 12:13

¶ The wicked is snared by the transgression of [his] lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

Proverbs 10:19

¶ In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips [is] wise.