Proverbs 21:28

Proverbs 21:28 presents a stark contrast between two types of witnesses and the enduring consequences of their words. It emphasizes the foundational importance of truth and integrity within society and before God.

Context

This verse is part of the book of Proverbs, a collection of wisdom sayings primarily attributed to King Solomon. These proverbs often present antithetical parallelism, contrasting righteousness with wickedness, wisdom with folly, and truth with falsehood. The setting for a "witness" often implies a legal or judicial context, where testimony can determine justice or injustice, life or death. The book frequently warns against the dangers of deceit and the ultimate triumph of divine justice.

Key Themes

• Truth vs. Falsehood: The core message highlights the destructive nature of lies and the enduring power of truth. A "false witness" is condemned, while the one who speaks truth is affirmed.
• Justice and Consequences: The proverb asserts that false testimony will ultimately lead to ruin or destruction ("shall perish"). This reflects the principle that God's justice ensures that deceit cannot ultimately prosper. Conversely, truth endures.
• Integrity of Speech: It underscores the critical importance of reliable and consistent communication. Our words, especially in matters of testimony, carry significant weight and have lasting repercussions.
• Reliability and Endurance: The phrase "speaketh constantly" suggests reliability, consistency, and lasting impact. The words of a truthful person, grounded in reality and wisdom, stand the test of time, unlike the fleeting and ultimately destructive nature of lies.

Linguistic Insights

• The word "perish" (Hebrew: אָבַד, 'abad) means to be lost, destroyed, or come to naught. It implies ruin, failure, and ultimate destruction, not necessarily immediate physical death, but often the destruction of reputation, influence, or divine judgment.
• "False witness" (Hebrew: עֵד־שֶׁקֶר, 'ed sheqer) literally means a "witness of falsehood" or "a lying witness," emphasizing the deliberate nature of the deceit.
• The phrase "the man that heareth speaketh constantly" is more nuanced. "Heareth" (Hebrew: שֹׁמֵעַ, shomea') implies one who listens attentively, understands, or even obeys. This suggests a person who is receptive to truth, wisdom, or God's word. "Speaketh constantly" (Hebrew: יְדַבֵּר לָנֶצַח, yedabber lanetzach) means "speaks forever" or "speaks enduringly." This contrasts sharply with "perish," indicating that the words of the truthful and attentive individual have lasting validity and impact, or that such a person's testimony endures because it is rooted in truth. This echoes the idea that "The lip of truth shall be established for ever" (Proverbs 12:19).

Practical Application

Proverbs 21:28 serves as a timeless reminder of the power and consequences of our words:

• Embrace Honesty: We are called to be people of truth in all aspects of life—in our conversations, our commitments, and our testimonies. Lies, though they may offer temporary advantage, inevitably lead to destruction and loss of credibility.
• Value Integrity: Our character is reflected in our speech. Being a reliable and consistent speaker builds trust and demonstrates integrity, which is far more valuable than fleeting deception.
• Listen Before Speaking: The contrast with the "man that heareth" encourages careful listening and discernment. When our words are informed by truth, wisdom, and careful consideration, they gain lasting power and positive influence.
• Trust in Divine Justice: This proverb offers reassurance that ultimately, falsehood will not prevail. While injustice may seem to triumph temporarily, God's moral order ensures that truth endures and deceit eventually faces its consequences.