Proverbs 25:10

Proverbs 25:10 KJV delivers a powerful warning about the consequences of indiscretion and the betrayal of trust. It states, "Lest he that heareth [it] put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away." This verse highlights the lasting damage that can result from revealing secrets or spreading harmful information.

Context

This proverb is part of the collection known as the "Proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out" (Proverbs 25:1). It directly follows Proverbs 25:9, which advises, "Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another." Therefore, Proverbs 25:10 serves as the crucial warning of what happens if the advice in the preceding verse is ignored: if you reveal someone's secret or sensitive information, the person who hears it may turn around and shame you, and your reputation will be permanently tarnished. It underscores the importance of discretion in all social dealings.

Key Themes

• The Peril of Loose Lips: The verse strongly cautions against revealing private matters or engaging in gossip. It suggests that such actions not only harm others but also boomerang back upon the speaker.
• Lasting Shame and Infamy: A core message is the enduring nature of public disgrace. Once a secret is exposed, or a reputation is damaged by careless words, the resulting "infamy" or dishonor is difficult, if not impossible, to escape. This emphasizes the value of a good name, a concept also found in Proverbs 22:1.
• Reputational Consequences: It warns that those who hear you betray a confidence or speak ill of others may lose respect for you, leading to your own public shaming. Your own integrity is at stake when you fail to be discreet.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "infamy" is qalown (קָלוֹן), which means shame, disgrace, or dishonor. It denotes a deep, public humiliation. The phrase "turn not away" emphasizes the permanence of this disgrace; it's not a temporary embarrassment but a lasting mark on one's character and social standing. This highlights the irreversible damage that can be done by a lack of discretion in speech.

Practical Application

Proverbs 25:10 offers timeless wisdom relevant to personal and professional relationships today:

• Guard Confidentiality: Be trustworthy with information, especially if it's sensitive or private. Breaking a confidence can destroy relationships and your own credibility.
• Avoid Gossip and Slander: Resist the urge to spread rumors or speak negatively about others, even if the information seems harmless. Such behavior not only hurts the subject but also reflects poorly on you, as listeners may question your own trustworthiness. Proverbs 11:13 also warns against the talebearer.
• Consider Long-Term Impact: Before speaking, consider the potential long-term consequences of your words, both for others and for your own reputation. A moment of thoughtless speech can lead to lasting regret.
• Cultivate Discretion: Develop a habit of thoughtful and careful communication. A person known for discretion is valued and trusted within their community.

Reflection

This proverb serves as a powerful reminder that our words carry significant weight and have lasting effects. It calls us to exercise wisdom and integrity in our speech, recognizing that a good name is precious and easily lost through indiscretion. By guarding our tongues, we not only protect others but also preserve our own honor and reputation.