Proverbs 11 13

Proverbs 11:13 kjv

A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

Proverbs 11:13 nkjv

A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.

Proverbs 11:13 niv

A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

Proverbs 11:13 esv

Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.

Proverbs 11:13 nlt

A gossip goes around telling secrets,
but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

Proverbs 11 13 Cross References

VerseTextReference
Lev 19:16Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people...Against slander/gossip
Ps 15:3He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour...Describes a righteous person avoiding slander
Ps 34:13Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.Control over destructive speech
Ps 50:19Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit.Criticism of malicious speech
Prov 10:19In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.Wisdom in controlled speech
Prov 11:12He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.Discretion of the wise
Prov 20:19He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him...Warning against talebearers and association with them
Prov 25:9Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another...Direct advice on resolving issues discreetly
Prov 25:10Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not back.Consequences of revealing secrets
Jer 9:4...for every brother will utterly supplant, and every neighbour will walk with slanders.Warning against widespread treachery/slander
Rom 1:29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness...whisperers...Lists whisperers as morally corrupt
2 Cor 12:20For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would... debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings...Divisions caused by gossiping/whispering
Eph 4:29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good...Command for edifying speech
Col 3:8But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication...Exhortation to shed negative communication
1 Tim 3:11Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.Qualities for deacons' wives, including no slander
1 Tim 5:13And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies...Criticism of idle gossips and busybodies
Tit 2:3The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers...Older women exhorted against slander
Jas 1:26If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridles not his tongue...True religion requires control of the tongue
Jas 3:6And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity...The tongue's immense destructive power
1 Pet 4:8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.Love covers faults, promoting discretion

Proverbs 11 verses

Proverbs 11 13 Meaning

Proverbs 11:13 contrasts two fundamental character types based on their handling of confidential information. A "talebearer," characterized by a tendency to gossip and betray trust, readily exposes private matters, thereby sowing discord and undermining relationships. In sharp opposition, an individual possessing a "faithful spirit" actively safeguards sensitive information, demonstrating loyalty and discretion. This verse highlights the profound value of trustworthiness in communication and the detrimental impact of loose tongues.

Proverbs 11 13 Context

Proverbs chapter 11 primarily contrasts the righteous with the wicked, highlighting the paths of wisdom versus folly, and their respective consequences. Within this broader theme, Proverbs 11:13 specifically addresses ethical communication and the profound impact of one's words and character on communal harmony. It falls within a section of proverbs that underscore the value of integrity, humility, and wise conduct (e.g., integrity in weights in v. 1, warning against pride in v. 2, the futility of wealth without righteousness in v. 4, blessings on the righteous in v. 6, contrast between the foolish and discerning in v. 12, and the dangers of surety in v. 15). The historical and cultural context for the original audience was a close-knit society where reputation and trustworthiness were paramount. Loose speech could irreparably damage individuals, families, and community bonds, making discretion a highly esteemed virtue. The proverb subtly stands against casual communication that would breach confidences, thereby disrupting the social fabric built on trust and reliability.

Proverbs 11 13 Word analysis

  • A talebearer (נִרְגָּן, nirgan): This Hebrew term comes from a root meaning "to murmur," "to grumble," or "to slander." It signifies not merely someone who reports facts, but a slanderer, whisperer, or gossip, who speaks carelessly or maliciously about others, often behind their backs. Such an individual inherently undermines trust and peace in relationships and community.
  • revealeth (גּוֹלֶה, goleh): From the root galah, meaning "to uncover," "to strip bare," "to expose," or "to disclose." It denotes an active process of bringing to light what was previously hidden. In this context, it implies a breach of confidence, exposing matters that were intended to remain private.
  • secrets (סוֹד, sod): Refers to confidential counsel, intimate knowledge, or private matters shared in trust. It implies a deep level of confidentiality, where a breach is a significant betrayal.
  • but (וְ, ve): A strong conjunction that introduces an antithetical contrast, characteristic of many Hebrew proverbs. It sets the opposing character type in stark relief.
  • he that is of a faithful spirit (וְנֶאֱמַן־רוּחַ, v'ne'eman-ruach): This phrase literally translates to "and faithful of spirit."
    • faithful (נֶאֱמַן, ne'eman): Derived from the root aman, meaning to be firm, trustworthy, reliable, steady, or established. It conveys a deep sense of integrity and reliability, foundational to the concept of "Amen." This person can be trusted entirely.
    • spirit (רוּחַ, ruach): Here refers to the inner disposition, character, or intrinsic nature of a person. It indicates that the ability to keep confidences stems from a deep, internal commitment to integrity and loyalty, not merely from outward adherence to a rule.
  • concealeth (מְכַסֶּה, m'khaseh): From the root kasah, meaning "to cover," "to hide," or "to conceal." It signifies the act of keeping something private or protecting it from exposure, the direct opposite of "reveals."
  • the matter (דָּבָר, davar): A very broad term meaning "word," "thing," "affair," "event," or "business." It encompasses any piece of information or sensitive issue that requires discretion.
  • "A talebearer revealeth secrets": This phrase paints a picture of irresponsibility and untrustworthiness. The talebearer, motivated by thoughtlessness, malice, or a desire for attention, betrays trust by exposing private discussions or vulnerabilities. This action devastates interpersonal trust and can lead to strife and damage to reputations within a community. It points to a character that lacks discretion and respect for confidentiality.
  • "but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter": This contrasting phrase describes a person of integrity whose character is rooted in trustworthiness. Their "faithful spirit" signifies an inner disposition that values discretion, loyalty, and protection of confidential information. This individual understands the sanctity of trust and actively works to preserve it, thus fostering stability and peace in relationships. The wisdom of this person is demonstrated through their disciplined control over their speech and their commitment to integrity.

Proverbs 11 13 Bonus section

The concept of "faithful spirit" is not merely about outward behavior but points to an inner moral and spiritual condition. The term for "faithful" (ne'eman) is deeply connected to God's own character—His faithfulness and steadfastness (e.g., Deut 7:9). Thus, a believer embodying a faithful spirit in their speech and discretion reflects divine attributes. This proverb also underlines a key principle in spiritual warfare: often, division and strife within the body of believers are fueled by unguarded tongues and a lack of discretion, creating fertile ground for the accuser of the brethren (Rev 12:10). The wise person's ability to "conceal the matter" demonstrates not only self-control but also an act of love (1 Pet 4:8) that "covers a multitude of sins," preserving reputations and fostering unity. This divine principle underscores that careless speech is a serious offense against trust, akin to an assault on relational bonds, while discretion is a cornerstone of a healthy, God-honoring community.

Proverbs 11 13 Commentary

Proverbs 11:13 presents a timeless truth about the profound impact of our words and character on community and relationships. It is a striking contrast between the destructive nature of indiscretion and the edifying power of trustworthiness. The "talebearer" is a picture of folly, someone who cheaply divulges confidential matters, demonstrating a lack of respect for privacy and a propensity to sow discord. Such behavior erodes the very foundation of trust that binds people together, leading to gossip, misunderstanding, and conflict. Conversely, the individual possessing a "faithful spirit" embodies true wisdom. Their loyalty stems not from mere adherence to a rule but from an inner character of integrity, reliability, and love. This person understands that protecting confidentiality is an act of genuine care and a vital contribution to harmony. Discretion is a hallmark of spiritual maturity, reflecting a self-controlled heart that values unity over fleeting amusement or personal gain from divulging secrets.

Examples: A professional bound by confidentiality preserving client information; a trusted friend keeping a confidence; a family member guarding sensitive family affairs without spreading gossip; a church elder discretely handling private pastoral concerns.