Proverbs 31:26

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue [is] the law of kindness.

She openeth {H6605} her mouth {H6310} with wisdom {H2451}; and in her tongue {H3956} is the law {H8451} of kindness {H2617}.

When she opens her mouth, she speaks wisely; on her tongue is loving instruction.

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; And the law of kindness is on her tongue.

Proverbs 31:26 beautifully describes a key characteristic of the virtuous woman: her speech. It highlights that her words are not only thoughtfully chosen and insightful but are also consistently imbued with kindness and grace. This verse emphasizes the profound connection between inner character and outward expression, particularly through communication.

Context

This verse is part of the famous acrostic poem in Proverbs 31:10-31, which paints a comprehensive picture of an ideal woman. Penned by King Lemuel, as taught by his mother, this section moves beyond superficial beauty to praise a woman's character, diligence, foresight, and, as seen here, the quality of her speech. Her words are presented as a reflection of her wisdom and her compassionate heart, making her a pillar of strength and guidance within her household and community.

Key Themes

  • Wise Communication: The phrase "She openeth her mouth with wisdom" indicates that her speech is not impulsive or foolish, but deliberate, discerning, and beneficial. She speaks with insight, offering counsel, instruction, or comfort as needed, always rooted in sound judgment.
  • Governed by Kindness: Her "tongue is the law of kindness." This powerful metaphor suggests that kindness is not merely an occasional act but a foundational principle that governs every word she utters. Her speech builds up, encourages, and shows compassion, reflecting a heart filled with benevolent intent. This aligns with the call to "put on...kindness" in Colossians 3:12.
  • Reflection of Character: The quality of her speech is a direct outflow of her inner character. Her wisdom and kindness are not just external displays but are deeply ingrained virtues that shape her communication, demonstrating the truth that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh".

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "wisdom" here is chokmah, which refers to practical skill, discernment, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively in daily life. It's not just intellectual understanding but lived wisdom. The term "kindness" comes from the Hebrew chesed, a rich word often translated as lovingkindness, steadfast love, or mercy. It denotes a loyal, enduring, and active love. When combined as "the law of kindness," it signifies that chesed is the guiding rule, the inherent principle governing her speech, making her words consistently gracious and beneficial.

Practical Application

Proverbs 31:26 offers a timeless challenge for all, regardless of gender. It encourages us to consider the impact and quality of our words. Do our words reflect wisdom, offering insight and thoughtful counsel? Is kindness the governing principle of our speech, building others up rather than tearing them down? Cultivating a tongue ruled by wisdom and kindness can transform relationships, foster understanding, and be a powerful testimony. This verse calls us to intentional communication, where every word spoken is weighed for its potential to bring grace and truth, echoing the sentiment of Ephesians 4:29, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying."

Note: Commentary was generated by Gemini 1.5 Pro, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 16:24

    ¶ Pleasant words [are as] an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

  • Ephesians 4:29

    Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

  • Proverbs 10:31

    ¶ The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

  • Proverbs 12:18

    ¶ There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise [is] health.

  • Colossians 4:5

    ¶ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

  • 1 Peter 3:4

    But [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, [even the ornament] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

  • 1 Peter 3:5

    For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
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