Proverbs 26:22

22 The words of a talebearer are as it were simple, but they reach to the innermost parts of the belly.

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 When the wood faileth, the fire shall go out: and when the talebearer is taken away, contentions shall cease.

21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire, so an angry man stirreth up strife.

22 The words of a talebearer are as it were simple, but they reach to the innermost parts of the belly.

23 Swelling lips joined with a corrupt heart, are like an earthen vessel adorned with silver dross.

24 An enemy is known by his lips, when in his heart he entertaineth deceit.