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 24:23–26.
Here are lessons for wise men, that is, judges and princes. As subjects must do their duty, and be obedient to magistrates, so magistrates must do their duty in administering justice to their subjects, both in pleas of the crown and causes between party and party. These are lessons for them. 1. They must always weigh the merits of a cause, and not be swayed by any regard, one way or other, to the parties concerned: It is not good in itself, nor can it ever do well, to have respect of persons in judgment; the consequences of it cannot but be the perverting of justice and doing wrong under colour of law and equity. A good judge will know the truth, not know faces, so as to countenance a friend and help him out in a bad cause, or so much as omit any thing that can be said or done in favour of a righteous cause, when it is the cause of an enemy. 2. They must never connive at or encourage wicked people in their wicked practices. Magistrates in their places, and ministers in theirs, are to deal faithfully and the wicked man, though he be a great man or a particular friend, to convict him of his wickedness, to show him what will be in the end thereof, to discover him to others, that they may avoid him. But if those whose office it is thus to show people their transgressions palliate them and connive at them, if they excuse the wicked man, much more if they prefer him and associate with him (which is, in effect, to say, Thou art righteous), they shall justly be looked upon as enemies to the public peace and welfare, which they ought to advance, and the people shall curse them and cry out shame on them; and even those of other nations shall abhor them, as base betrayers of their trust. 3. They must discountenance and give check to all fraud, violence, injustice, and immorality; and, though thereby they may disoblige a particular person, yet they will recommend themselves to the favour of God and man. Let magistrates and ministers, and private persons too that are capable of doing it, rebuke the wicked, that they may bring them to repentance or put them to shame, and they shall have the comfort of it in their own bosoms: To them shall be delight, when their consciences witness for them that they have been witnesses for God; and a good blessing shall come upon them, the blessing of God and good men; they shall be deemed religion's patrons and their country's patriots. See Pro 28:23. 4. They must always give judgment according to equity (Pro 24:26); they must give a right answer, that is, give their opinion and pass sentence according to law and them true merits of the cause; and every one shall kiss his lips that does so, that is, shall love and honour him, and be subject to his orders, for there is a kiss of allegiance as well as of affection. He that in common conversation likewise speaks pertinently and with sincerity recommends himself to his company and is beloved and respected by all.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
He will kiss the lips, etc. The kiss is a sign of peace and love. Therefore, he who answers correctly will kiss the lips, because whoever follows the words of justice alone, neglecting the acceptance of persons, though he may seem harsh and severe to the unwise, will yet find many prudent people with whom he has peace; many who embrace his sayings with love. Often, too, he will receive as friends and companions those whom he had endured as opponents to his right assertions, but who are afterwards converted to better things.
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Summary
Proverbs 24:26 celebrates the profound societal and interpersonal value of truthful and upright communication, declaring that a person who delivers a "right answer"—one that is not only accurate but also morally sound, just, and delivered with integrity—will be met with deep respect, honor, and affirmation. This proverb underscores the transformative power of wise and honest speech, portraying it as a quality so esteemed that it elicits a gesture of profound appreciation from those who benefit from such insight.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 24 is situated within the "Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34), a collection characterized by practical wisdom for daily living, emphasizing righteousness, diligence, and the consequences of moral choices. Immediately preceding Proverbs 24:26, verses 23-25 directly address the importance of impartiality and integrity in judgment. Proverbs 24:23 warns against showing favoritism, while Proverbs 24:24 condemns those who justify the wicked. Conversely, Proverbs 24:25 praises those who rebuke the wicked, promising them "delight" and "a good blessing." In this specific context, Proverbs 24:26 extends the principle of valuing righteous judgment to a broader appreciation for any communication that embodies truth and integrity, highlighting the positive reception of discerning and honest counsel.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, a kiss, particularly on the lips or mouth, was a multifaceted gesture that extended far beyond romantic affection. It served as a powerful signifier of deep respect, honor, covenantal agreement, reconciliation, or profound appreciation. Examples abound in the biblical narrative: Jacob kissed Rachel upon their first meeting, signifying welcome and kinship; Esau kissed Jacob as a gesture of reconciliation after years of estrangement; and even Samuel kissed Saul upon anointing him king, symbolizing acceptance and blessing. Therefore, the "kissing of lips" in Proverbs 24:26 is not a casual pleasantry but a potent cultural idiom conveying the highest form of affirmation and honor bestowed upon an individual whose words are recognized as supremely valuable, truthful, and wise. It reflects a societal framework where wisdom and integrity in speech were highly esteemed and publicly acknowledged.
Key Themes
Proverbs 24:26 powerfully reinforces several core themes pervasive throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it champions the Esteem of Truth and Wisdom, asserting that honest and discerning communication is not merely tolerated but profoundly celebrated. A "right answer" implies not just factual accuracy but a response imbued with moral uprightness and discernment, echoing the foundational call to seek and prize wisdom above all else, as articulated in Proverbs 4:7. Secondly, the proverb highlights the Positive Reception of Righteous Speech, demonstrating that words spoken with integrity are met with honor and approval, standing in stark contrast to the condemnation of deceitful or perverse speech found elsewhere, such as in Proverbs 10:31. Finally, the verse subtly encourages the Cultivation of Discernment, both in speaking truth and in recognizing and appreciating it when spoken by others, fostering a community where wise counsel is actively sought after and deeply valued, much like "a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to kiss," literally or figuratively (touch). It can also imply a mode of attachment or equipping with weapons. In this context, nâshaq is employed figuratively to denote a profound expression of approval, respect, or affection. The act of kissing the lips signifies a direct and intimate form of affirmation, indicating deep agreement, honor, and a welcoming acceptance of the speaker and their words.
Meaning "the lip" (as a natural boundary); by implication, "language"; by analogy, a "margin." Here, sâphâh refers to the organ of speech, serving as a metonymy for the speaker themselves or, more precisely, the words that issue forth from them. The phrase "kiss his lips" therefore directly honors the source of the wise and truthful utterance, acknowledging the wisdom and integrity of the individual.
From the same root as "straightforward," meaning "equitable, correct, or integrity." It implies a response that is not merely factually accurate but also morally upright, just, and delivered with sincerity and integrity. It speaks to the intrinsic quality of the answer being aligned with truth, righteousness, and what is proper or fitting for the situation.
From דָבַר, meaning "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing." In this context, dâbâr refers to a spoken response, a piece of advice, or a judgment. When combined with nâkôach ("right"), it signifies a word or matter that is straightforward, equitable, and imbued with integrity, making it a truly valuable and commendable utterance.
Verse Breakdown
"Every man shall kiss his lips"
This initial clause vividly describes the societal or interpersonal response to a specific kind of communication. The action of "kissing the lips" is a powerful idiom, signifying profound respect, honor, and affirmation. It transcends mere intellectual agreement, conveying deep appreciation and approval for the individual and the wisdom of their words. It implies that such a speaker earns not only intellectual assent but also emotional and relational esteem, embodying a high level of trust and admiration.
"that giveth a right answer"
This subsequent clause precisely defines the quality of communication that elicits such a high level of honor. A "right answer" (Hebrew: dâbâr nâkôach) is far more than a factually correct statement. The term nâkôach implies straightforwardness, equity, moral uprightness, and integrity. Therefore, the answer is one that is truthful, just, appropriate, and delivered with sincerity and wisdom, often in a context of counsel, judgment, or discerning advice. It is an answer that brings clarity, resolves a dilemma, or articulates truth in a way that benefits all.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 24:26 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its message with vividness and impact. The most prominent device is Metaphor, where the act of "kissing his lips" is not intended to be understood literally as a physical embrace, but rather as a symbolic representation of profound respect, honor, and affirmation. This vivid imagery creates a strong emotional resonance, emphasizing the extraordinary esteem in which a truthful and wise speaker is held. Furthermore, the phrase functions as an Idiom, where the meaning of the combined words ("kiss his lips") is not deducible from the individual words alone, but rather refers to a culturally understood gesture of deep honor and approval. There is also an element of Synecdoche, where "lips" (a part of the body) stand for the entire person or, more specifically, their speech (the whole of their communication). This highlights that the honor is directed not just at the words themselves but at the character, wisdom, and integrity of the speaker from whom those valuable words originate.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Proverbs 24:26 profoundly connects to the broader biblical emphasis on truth, wisdom, and righteous speech as divine attributes and human virtues. The "right answer" is not merely a product of human ingenuity but often reflects an alignment with divine wisdom and justice, which God desires for His people. The high regard for such an answer underscores that truth is a cornerstone of God's character and His kingdom, and that those who embody and articulate it are agents of His order and blessing in the world. It speaks to the idea that God delights in truth in the inward being (Psalm 51:6) and that His wisdom is accessible to those who seek it diligently, promising that "the mouth of the righteous utters wisdom" (Proverbs 10:31).
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 24:26 serves as a powerful and timeless reminder of the enduring value of integrity and truth in our communication. In a world often characterized by equivocation, flattery, or outright deceit, this proverb calls us to be individuals whose words are marked by honesty, wisdom, and genuine insight. It challenges us to speak "right answers"—responses that are not only factually accurate but also morally sound, just, and delivered with sincere intent and a desire for the good of others. Furthermore, it encourages us to cultivate an environment where such truthful and wise counsel is not just tolerated but actively sought, deeply appreciated, and openly honored. Whether in personal relationships, professional interactions, community discourse, or within the church, valuing and affirming those who speak truth fosters trust, promotes healthy outcomes, and builds a foundation of integrity, reflecting a divine order where truth is paramount and brings blessing.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "kiss his lips" literally mean in this context?
While a literal kiss on the lips could occur in ancient cultures, in the context of ancient Near Eastern culture and the wisdom literature of Proverbs, "kiss his lips" is primarily an idiom and metaphor for profound respect, honor, and affirmation. It signifies that the person who gives a "right answer" is met with deep approval, high esteem, and a welcoming acceptance, far beyond mere intellectual agreement. It's a powerful gesture of profound appreciation for their wisdom, integrity, and the value of their counsel, reflecting a societal commendation for truthfulness.
What constitutes a "right answer" according to this proverb?
A "right answer" (Hebrew: dâbâr nâkôach) is more than just a factually correct statement. The term nâkôach implies straightforwardness, equity, and moral uprightness. Therefore, a "right answer" is one that is truthful, just, appropriate for the situation, and delivered with integrity and wisdom. It's an answer that aligns with righteousness, contributes positively to the situation, and is often given in the context of counsel, judgment, or discerning advice, as seen in the surrounding verses of Proverbs 24. It is a word that brings clarity, promotes justice, and fosters understanding.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 24:26 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of the "right answer," the Logos (Word) of God made flesh, through whom all things were created and in whom all truth resides (John 1:1-3 and John 14:6). Unlike human counsel, which is inherently flawed and limited, Christ's words are always perfectly true, just, and full of grace and truth (John 1:14). When Jesus spoke, whether in teaching the multitudes, rebuking the religious leaders, or comforting His disciples, His "answers" were consistently "right"—they revealed God's perfect will, exposed sin, offered redemption, and pointed the way to eternal life. The "kissing of lips" in the proverb, signifying profound honor and acceptance, is mirrored in the divine affirmation Jesus received from His Father, as when the voice from heaven declared, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). Furthermore, those who believe in Christ and receive His words of truth are called to be His disciples, to "continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32). Thus, Christ is not only the source of all right answers but also the one to whom all true wisdom ultimately points, inviting us to "kiss his lips" in spiritual devotion, obedient faith, and heartfelt worship, acknowledging Him as the perfect and final Word of God.