Proverbs 26:22

22 The words of gossips are like choice snacks; they go down to the inmost parts.

Proverbs 26:22 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 26:22

The words of a talebearer [are] as wounds, and they go down
into the innermost parts of the belly.
] These expressions are the same with those in ( Proverbs 18:8 ) ; and are here repeated, as being found along with others by the men of Hezekiah, ( Proverbs 25:1 ) ; as some others likewise are; and also because of the importance of them; and to impress the minds of men with a sense of the evil of such a practice, that they may shun it, and avoid those that are given to it. (See Gill on Proverbs 18:8).

Proverbs 26:22 In-Context

20 Without wood a fire goes out; without gossips, conflict calms down.

21 Like adding charcoal to embers or wood to fire, quarrelsome people kindle strife.

22 The words of gossips are like choice snacks; they go down to the inmost parts.

23 Smooth lips and an evil heart are like silver coating on clay.

24 Hateful people mislead with their lips, keeping their deception within.