Proverbs 18:7
“A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.”
Proverbs 18:7 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- The mouth of a fool is his destruction: and his lips are the ruin of his soul.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- A fool's mouth is his destruction, And his lips are the snare of his soul.
- DARBYDarby
- A fool's mouth is destruction to him, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- The mouth of a fool is ruin to him, And his lips are the snare of his soul.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- A fool’s mouth brings about their own ruin, and their lips trap their own soul.
Context: Proverbs 18
5It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.
6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.
7A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
8The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
9He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
About Proverbs 18: Words Have Power
Proverbs 18 reveals that words have tremendous power to build up or tear down, to bring life or death. It encourages us to be careful with our words and to use them wisely, for our words have the potential to deeply impact ourselves and others.
Commentary
This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-control and discernment when it comes to speaking. It warns against hasty judgments, gossip, and flattery, which can lead to shame and destruction. Conversely, it highlights the value of wise counsel, humility, and listening to both accurate and opposing viewpoints. The chapter also reminds us that our words can be a source of healing, comfort, and wisdom. Ultimately, Proverbs 18 reinforces the idea that the power of our words lies not only in what we say but also in how we say it.