Proverbs 16:23

23 The hearts of wise people guide their mouths. Their words make people want to learn more.

Proverbs 16:23 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:23

The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth
That is, a man that is wise in heart, as in ( Proverbs 16:21 ) ; his heart will teach his mouth what to say, when to say it, and before whom; it will prompt him to matter, that he shall not be at a loss what to say, nor how to say; it will furnish him with words and things; out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh, ( Matthew 12:34 ) ; and addeth learning to his lips:
so that he does not deliver out mere words, but solid learning along with them, instructive to himself and others. The Targum is,

``and by his lips he addeth doctrine;''

or increases knowledge.

Proverbs 16:23 In-Context

21 Wise hearts are known for understanding what is right. Pleasant words make people want to learn more.

22 Understanding is like a fountain of life to those who have it. But foolish people are punished for the foolish things they do.

23 The hearts of wise people guide their mouths. Their words make people want to learn more.

24 Pleasant words are like honey. They are sweet to the spirit and bring healing to the body.

25 There is a way that may seem right to a man. But in the end it leads to death.