Ecclesiastes 10:13

13 The beginning of the words of his mouth [is] folly, And the latter end of his mouth [Is] mischievous madness.

Ecclesiastes 10:13 Meaning and Commentary

Ecclesiastes 10:13

The beginning of the words of his mouth [is] foolishness
As soon as ever he opens his mouth, he betrays his folly; the first word he speaks is a foolish one; or it is from the abundant folly in his heart that he speaks, which is the source and spring of all his foolish talk; and the end of his talk [is] mischievous madness;
to himself and others; as he goes on, he appears more and more foolish, and yet more confident of his own wisdom; and is resolutely set on having his own way and will; grows warm, and is violently hot, to have his own words regarded; and, if contradicted, is like a madman, scattering arrows, firebrands, and death; his talk from first to last is a circle of folly; and, though it begins with something weak, and may seem innocent, yet it ends and issues in wickedness and madness, in rage and wrath, in oaths and curses.

Ecclesiastes 10:13 In-Context

11 If the serpent biteth without enchantment, Then there is no advantage to a master of the tongue.
12 Words of the mouth of the wise [are] gracious, And the lips of a fool swallow him up.
13 The beginning of the words of his mouth [is] folly, And the latter end of his mouth [Is] mischievous madness.
14 And the fool multiplieth words: `Man knoweth not that which is, And that which is after him, who doth declare to him?'
15 The labour of the foolish wearieth him, In that he hath not known to go unto the city.
Young's Literal Translation is in the public domain.