Proverbs 15:23 kjv

A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

Proverbs 15:23 nkjv

A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

Proverbs 15:23 niv

A person finds joy in giving an apt reply? and how good is a timely word!

Proverbs 15:23 esv

To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!

Proverbs 15:23 nlt

Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;
it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

Proverbs 15 verses

Proverbs 15 23 Meaning

A person finds deep satisfaction and joy in giving a suitable answer and expressing a word that is both wise and delivered at the opportune moment. Such timely and appropriate communication is profoundly beneficial and delightful.

Proverbs 15 23 Context

Proverbs 15 is a rich collection of maxims contrasting wisdom with folly, particularly emphasizing the profound impact of words and attitudes. The chapter repeatedly highlights how a person's speech reveals their inner character and affects their relationships with others, with authority, and with God. From the outset, the chapter underscores the power of a gentle answer versus a harsh word (v.1). The present verse fits precisely into this overarching theme, stressing that it's not merely what is said, but when and how it's said that brings about the greatest joy and good. It speaks to the practical application of wisdom in daily interaction, promoting thoughtful, well-timed communication over impulsive or careless utterances, which are frequently condemned throughout the book of Proverbs.

Proverbs 15 23 Word analysis

• A man: The Hebrew word ʾîš (אִישׁ) signifies an individual human being, emphasizing the personal experience of joy in delivering a well-timed word. It applies universally to any person.
• has joy: The term śimḥāh (שִׂמְחָה) denotes deep gladness, delight, or mirth. It points to an inner satisfaction that arises not just from speaking, but from speaking effectively and beneficially. This is a profound, heart-felt joy, distinct from fleeting pleasure.
• by the answer: bəʿaneh (בְּמַעֲנֵה) means "in the answer" or "with a reply." It highlights the responsive nature of the word, often in conversation or interaction. It implies an exchange where one's contribution is precisely fitting to the situation.
• of his mouth: pîhû (פִּיהוּ) literally means "his mouth." This specifies the organ of speech, underscoring that it is the spoken word that brings about this joy and good, differentiating it from mere thoughts or intentions.
• and a word: wəḏāḇār (וְדָבָר) is a broad term meaning "a word," "a matter," "a thing," or "a message." In this context, it refers to any communication or statement. Its breadth allows for applications to encouragement, counsel, instruction, or even gentle rebuke.
• in its season: bəʿittōw (בְּעִתּוֹ) is crucial; it means "in its proper time," "at its appointed time," or "opportunely." This phrase elevates the common "good word" to a word whose effectiveness is amplified by its delivery at the precise moment it is most needed or impactful. The wisdom is in discerning the right timing. This also subtly stands against rash or impulsive speech.
• how good!: māh ṭōḇ (מַה טּוֹב) is an exclamatory phrase conveying great excellence and benefit. It emphasizes the extraordinary value and positive outcome of such a word. It’s not just good, but remarkably so, bringing forth the best results.
• A man has joy... and a word in its season, how good!: This grouping highlights the dual aspect of the verse. First, the speaker finds joy from their apt reply, signifying the satisfaction of communicating effectively and appropriately. Second, the timely word itself is intrinsically good and beneficial for the recipient and the situation. The joy and the goodness are intertwined outcomes of discerning communication.
• answer of his mouth... word in its season: These two phrases work in parallel, one reinforcing the other. The "answer of his mouth" emphasizes the appropriate content or substance of the communication, while "a word in its season" highlights the indispensable element of timing. Both content and timing must be perfectly aligned for the maximum "good" and "joy."

Proverbs 15 23 Bonus section

The wisdom expressed in Proverbs 15:23 stands in subtle contrast to the common human tendency for impulsive speech or a desire to merely assert one's opinion without considering the receiver or the timing. This verse implicitly warns against the thoughtless "babbler" or "prater" whose words, though perhaps well-intentioned, fail to hit their mark due to poor timing or delivery. It suggests that effective communication is an act of spiritual discernment, requiring attentiveness and restraint, rather than simply verbal fluency. The emphasis on "joy" (śimḥāh) for the speaker implies a divine blessing upon those who stewarded their words wisely, finding fulfillment in their capacity to minister grace through their speech. It also suggests that this wisdom isn't innate but cultivated through practice and reliance on God's guidance, leading to increasing proficiency in the delicate balance of speech.

Proverbs 15 23 Commentary

Proverbs 15:23 powerfully asserts the immense value of judiciously chosen and perfectly timed speech. It identifies a profound, inner joy experienced by the speaker who masters this art. This joy is not derived from merely expressing oneself, but from the satisfaction of delivering an "answer" that is fitting, considerate, and relevant to the moment. Furthermore, the verse extols the inherent goodness of such a "word in its season," emphasizing its positive impact on the recipient and the situation. This discerning communication involves sensitivity to others' needs, understanding the context, and wisdom to know when to speak and when to refrain. It encompasses words of encouragement, comfort, counsel, or even gentle correction, all delivered with precision and love. Such speech is a hallmark of true wisdom, bringing edification, peace, and delight to all involved, rather than causing misunderstanding, offense, or regret. It transforms everyday interactions into opportunities for grace and positive influence.