Proverbs 16:23 kjv

The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

Proverbs 16:23 nkjv

The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips.

Proverbs 16:23 niv

The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.

Proverbs 16:23 esv

The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips.

Proverbs 16:23 nlt

From a wise mind comes wise speech;
the words of the wise are persuasive.

Proverbs 16 verses

Proverbs 16 23 Meaning

Proverbs 16:23 articulates that genuine wisdom originates from within a person's core being and profoundly shapes their communication. The "heart of the wise" (their intellect, will, and moral compass) acts as a mentor, guiding and instructing their speech. Consequently, their words are not only thoughtfully delivered but are also enriched with valuable instruction and discernment, effectively imparting insight and learning to those who listen. It signifies that true wisdom transforms a person's communication, making it a source of beneficial knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 16 23 Context

Proverbs 16 falls within the main body of Solomonic proverbs, specifically focusing on the divine sovereignty over human plans, the inherent difference between wisdom and folly, the opposition of pride to humility, and the benefits of righteousness. This chapter emphasizes the fear of the Lord as the basis for wisdom and success, particularly noting how one's intentions and actions are seen by God. Proverbs 16:23 speaks to the specific domain of communication, asserting that truly effective and instructive speech flows from a heart saturated with wisdom, reinforcing the overall theme that inner character dictates outward manifestation. Historically, in ancient Israelite culture, oral communication was paramount, and the ability to speak wisely was a highly esteemed trait, distinguishing true teachers and leaders from fools who spoke carelessly. This verse promotes diligent, reflective communication rather than impulsive utterance.

Proverbs 16 23 Word analysis

• The heart (לֵב lev): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" is far more than just the seat of emotions; it represents the entirety of a person's inner being—their intellect, will, conscience, and capacity for moral decision. It is the core from which all actions, thoughts, and words proceed. Thus, "the heart of the wise" refers to the entire cultivated inner life of a discerning individual, permeated by divine truth and practical understanding.
• of the wise (חָכָם chakam): Refers to a person possessing practical wisdom, which often stems from the fear of the Lord (Prov 9:10). This isn't mere intellectual cleverness but skill in living righteously and effectively, applying God's principles to life's circumstances. A "wise" person has learned from experience, instruction, and reflection, and can discern truth from falsehood.
• teaches (יֹרֶה yoreh): This verb comes from yarah, meaning "to throw," "to cast," "to shoot," or, significantly, "to teach" or "to instruct." It implies an active, intentional, and directing influence. The wise heart actively guides and shapes the mouth's utterances, ensuring they are purposeful, accurate, and beneficial, much like an archer aims an arrow or a teacher guides a student. It suggests discipline and internal control over speech.
• his mouth (פִּיהוּ pihu): The literal physical opening used for speech. In this context, it represents a person's spoken words, discourse, or overall verbal expression. The "mouth" is the conduit through which the internal wisdom manifests externally.
• and adds (וְיֹסִיף we-yosif): From the verb yasaf, meaning "to add," "to increase," "to continue." This denotes that the wisdom-guided speech isn't just present; it's also growing in depth, effectiveness, and positive impact. It implies a qualitative and quantitative enrichment of the speech.
• learning (לֶקַח leqach): This noun refers to teaching, instruction, or wise doctrine, often of a moral or spiritual nature. It signifies something valuable to be received and acted upon. The wise person's words, precisely because they are born from wisdom, naturally contain leqach – insightful, beneficial, and memorable lessons for the listener.
• to his lips (שְׂפָתָיו sefatav): A parallelism to "his mouth," reinforcing the idea of spoken words. "Lips" often emphasize the articulation and precision of speech. The wisdom cultivated within the heart results in speech that is articulate, precise, and replete with valuable instruction.

Proverbs 16 23 Bonus section

The progressive nature suggested by "adds learning" highlights that the wise person's communication is not static. Their wisdom and its manifestation in speech continue to grow and deepen. This suggests a continuous process of self-discipline, learning, and maturation. It’s a dynamic state where the internal wellspring of wisdom constantly enriches the external outflow of words. Furthermore, this verse subtly contrasts the truly wise speaker with the foolish or empty speaker whose words reveal their shallow or corrupted heart (Prov 15:2, 15:28, Matt 12:34). The ultimate source of the "wisdom" mentioned here is rooted in the "fear of the Lord" (Prov 9:10), implying that the quality of communication for believers is directly tied to their relationship with God. The capacity for a wise heart to teach one's mouth is a spiritual fruit, nurtured by seeking divine instruction and allowing it to transform one's inner being.

Proverbs 16 23 Commentary

Proverbs 16:23 provides a profound insight into the origin and nature of wise communication. It asserts that effective, insightful, and beneficial speech is not an accidental byproduct of a clever mind, but rather the direct outflow of a disciplined and truth-saturated inner self. The verse underscores the intimate connection between one's internal character and external expression. The "heart of the wise" is the spiritual and intellectual control center; it proactively "teaches" or guides the tongue, ensuring that words are measured, prudent, and intentional, rather than impulsive or empty. This inner instruction adds "learning" – meaning valuable, meaningful insights and instruction – to the spoken words. This is distinct from mere cleverness or rhetorical skill, which can exist without genuine wisdom. The truly wise person's speech carries weight because it originates from a deep well of understanding and is therefore imbued with beneficial teaching for the listener. Their words are not merely uttered but delivered with purpose, shaping and enlightening those who hear. This principle applies in all areas of life, from giving counsel to offering comfort or making declarations.

• Example 1: A parent, deeply reflecting on biblical principles and understanding their child's nature, "teaches" their mouth how to offer guidance that is firm yet loving, and full of beneficial life "learning."
• Example 2: A spiritual leader, spending consistent time in prayer and study, allows his heart to be shaped by divine wisdom, enabling his sermons and advice to be insightful, convicting, and life-giving, full of true "learning."