Proverbs 16:23

23 From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.

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 The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.

22 Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it, but discipline is wasted on fools.

23 From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.

24 Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

25 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.