Proverbs 10:19 kjv

In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19 nkjv

In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19 niv

Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.

Proverbs 10:19 esv

When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

Proverbs 10:19 nlt

Too much talk leads to sin.
Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

Proverbs 10 verses

Proverbs 10 19 Meaning

Excessive or uncontrolled speech inevitably leads to sin. Conversely, true wisdom is demonstrated by one who exercises intentional restraint over their words.

Proverbs 10 19 Context

Proverbs 10 initiates a major section of the book, largely consisting of two-line proverbs, many in antithetical parallelism. This structure presents sharp contrasts between righteous and wicked behavior, wise and foolish conduct, particularly regarding diligent work, honest wealth, and above all, speech. Proverbs 10:19 is central to this theme of wise communication, coming after warnings about a corrupt mouth (v. 6) and the value of discretion (v. 8). Historically, in oral cultures like ancient Israel, words held immense weight for social standing, legal matters, and community well-being. This proverb implicitly critiques any cultural tendencies toward excessive rhetoric, empty talk, or boasting, advocating instead for the measured and thoughtful use of words as a mark of genuine wisdom.

Proverbs 10 19 Word analysis

• In the multitude of words (בְּרֹ֣ב דְּ֭בָרִים - be-rov de-varim):

  • Multitude (rov): Denotes an excess, abundance, or overwhelming quantity. It signifies unrestrained verbosity.
  • Words (devarim): Refers to speech, conversation, or declarations. The plural emphasizes the sheer volume.
  • Significance: Highlights the inherent danger in uncontrolled, abundant talk, often characterized by thoughtlessness or chatter.

• there wanteth not sin (לֹא־ יֶחְסַר־ פָּשַׁע - lo- yechsar- pasha'):

  • Wanteth not (lo- yechsar): A strong negative, meaning "there will not be lacking," or "sin is unavoidable." It asserts an inevitability.
  • Sin (pasha'): Implies transgression, rebellion, or intentional wrongdoing against divine or moral law. It's not a mere mistake but active wrongdoing.
  • Significance: Establishes a direct and certain link between unbridled speech and actual moral culpability. Sins of the tongue (like slander, lying, gossip) are almost guaranteed with excessive talk.

• but he that refraineth his lips (וְחוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ שְׂפָתָיו - ve-chosekh sefataiv):

  • Refraineth (choshekh): Means to hold back, restrain, or withhold. It indicates conscious, disciplined control and self-discipline.
  • Lips (sefataiv): A metonymy for speech. It signifies control over the instrument and act of speaking.
  • Significance: Emphasizes active self-governance and discernment in communication, choosing silence or measured speech.

• is wise (מַשְׂכִּיל - maskil):

  • Wise (maskil): Denotes possessing insight, discernment, and practical understanding leading to prudent action. It describes someone acting skillfully.
  • Significance: Connects verbal discipline directly to true wisdom, which involves a discerning understanding of when and what to speak.

• "In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin": This phrase asserts a virtually unavoidable consequence. The more one talks without control, purpose, or filters, the greater the likelihood and almost certainty of uttering falsehoods, slander, boasts, idle chatter, or other forms of sin. It describes a dangerous path where talkativeness inherently generates moral lapses.

• "but he that refraineth his lips is wise": This contrasting statement presents the virtuous alternative. Wisdom is not found in volume of speech, but in its strategic restraint. To "refrain the lips" is an act of discerning discipline, demonstrating self-control, thoughtful consideration, and prudence, thus avoiding the pitfalls of unguarded communication.

Proverbs 10 19 Bonus section

• This proverb has a deep resonance with the Jewish concept of lashon hara (evil tongue), which categorizes malicious or defamatory speech, even if true, as a severe transgression.
• The emphasis on "lips" is a strong metonymy, underscoring that the control must be applied at the very point of utterance, stemming from an internal, disciplined mind.
• The antithetical parallelism (multitude of words vs. refraining lips; sin vs. wise) highlights the direct and profound consequences of each choice regarding speech.
• The proverb offers timeless guidance, especially pertinent in modern times where abundant, unthinking, and often hurtful communication is prevalent through various digital platforms.

Proverbs 10 19 Commentary

Proverbs 10:19 presents a fundamental truth about human communication: uncontrolled speech is a direct gateway to sin, while verbal restraint is a hallmark of true wisdom. The sheer quantity of words spoken increases the probability of transgressions such as falsehood, gossip, slander, thoughtless criticism, or the breaking of confidences. It underscores that much talk often implies a lack of thought, impulse control, or discretion, leading to morally detrimental outcomes. In sharp contrast, the wise individual exhibits discipline by consciously holding back words, pausing, and carefully considering their impact. This restraint is not merely silence, but a discerning choice born of understanding, leading to integrity and righteous behavior. True wisdom is manifested not in what is said, but often in what is withheld or spoken with measured precision. This proverb reminds believers that guarding the tongue is crucial for a life honoring God, where communication serves to edify and speak truth, rather than cause harm or stumble.