Proverbs 31:26 kjv

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

Proverbs 31:26 nkjv

She opens her mouth with wisdom, And on her tongue is the law of kindness.

Proverbs 31:26 niv

She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Proverbs 31:26 esv

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

Proverbs 31:26 nlt

When she speaks, her words are wise,
and she gives instructions with kindness.

Proverbs 31 verses

Proverbs 31 26 Meaning

The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 is portrayed as one whose speech is deliberate and profound, emanating from a heart rooted in divine insight. Her words are not impulsive or empty, but are spoken "with wisdom," signifying thoughtful discernment and godly understanding. Furthermore, her communication is characterized by "the teaching of kindness," indicating that her instruction and counsel are always imbued with gracious love, loyalty, and mercy. Her speech, being "on her tongue," demonstrates that these qualities are consistently present and readily expressed in all her interactions, making her a source of edification and guidance for her household and beyond.

Proverbs 31 26 Context

Proverbs 31:26 is part of a longer poetic description, an acrostic poem (Proverbs 31:10-31), outlining the characteristics of the "excellent wife" or "woman of valor" (eshet chayil). This poem is a culmination of the wisdom teachings in the book of Proverbs, presenting an ideal portrait of womanhood within the ancient Israelite societal and family structure. The passage details her diligence, economic acumen, foresight, strength, generosity, and particularly in this verse, her impactful and beneficial communication. This ideal figure embodies wisdom not just in her actions but in her very words, which flow from her inner character. The poem implicitly stands in contrast to the warnings earlier in Proverbs about foolish or contentious women, highlighting speech as a crucial indicator of true virtue and character within the home and community.

Proverbs 31 26 Word analysis

• She opens her mouth: The Hebrew verb is pā-tāḥ (פָּתַח), meaning "to open." This implies a deliberate and intentional action, not impulsive or reckless speech. It suggests that her words are measured and considered before being uttered, reflecting self-control and purpose, rather than thoughtlessness or unrestrained chatter often condemned in Proverbs.
• with wisdom: The Hebrew term is ḥoḵ-māh (חָכְמָה), which refers to practical skill, prudence, insight, and profound understanding. In biblical context, ḥokmah is often connected to the fear of the Lord (Prov 1:7) and discerning what is right and just. Her speech is therefore not merely intelligent or clever, but divinely informed and oriented towards righteousness and the well-being of others. It implies her counsel is discerning, judicious, and rooted in godly principles.
• and the teaching of kindness: This phrase translates the Hebrew wə-ṯō-raṯ ḥe-seḏ (וְתוֹרַת חֶסֶד).
  • Torat (תּוֹרָה) is typically translated as "law" or "instruction" (Torah), implying guidance, precept, or doctrine. It suggests that her words carry the weight of authority and moral direction within her household.
  • Chesed (חֶסֶד) is a profound Hebrew term often translated as "kindness," "steadfast love," "mercy," "loyal love," or "grace." It signifies a loyal and active benevolence, particularly within a covenant relationship. When applied to speech, it means her instruction is always infused with loving care, loyalty, and graciousness. Her words aim to build up, comfort, and foster good relationships, rather than to tear down or harshly criticize. This blend of "law" and "love" means her instruction is firm yet compassionate, principled yet graceful.
• is on her tongue: The phrase ‘al lə-šō-nāh (עַל לְשׁוֹנָה) signifies that this teaching of kindness is not something she struggles to produce but is readily present and characteristic of her speech. It implies a consistent habit and an innate part of her being. Her tongue serves as the vehicle for her wise and gracious words, reflecting an internal reservoir of virtue.

• She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue: This entire clause portrays a woman whose character defines her communication. Her internal wisdom, flowing from a reverence for God, manifests in external speech that is not only wise but also imbued with loyal, steadfast love. It speaks of intentional, beneficial, and gracious verbal interactions. This combination makes her words exceptionally effective and nurturing, providing both clarity and comfort, truth and grace. This distinguishes her speech from both rash words and malicious gossip, highlighting words that contribute to a flourishing home and community.

Proverbs 31 26 Bonus section

The concept of "the teaching of kindness" (torat chesed) highlights a unique blend rarely emphasized together as the characteristic of one's everyday speech. It speaks to a heart so full of divine wisdom (chokmah) that its outflow is inevitably imbued with divine loyal love (chesed), demonstrating the seamless integration of truth and grace in her character. This also subtly reflects aspects of God's own communication and law, which are rooted in both absolute truth and unchanging steadfast love. Furthermore, the role of a woman in imparting torah (instruction/teaching) within her household, particularly moral and spiritual guidance, emphasizes her significant and active role in shaping the spiritual and ethical fabric of her family and thus the community, transcending purely domestic duties. This virtuous speech serves as a safeguard against folly and conflict, positioning her as a cornerstone of wisdom and stability.

Proverbs 31 26 Commentary

Proverbs 31:26 reveals the internal quality of the virtuous woman that complements her outward diligence and foresight: her profound wisdom and graciousness in communication. Her words are never idle or ill-considered; they are marked by discernment and a deep understanding of right conduct. Critically, her instruction is always tempered with chesed—loyal love and kindness—meaning she corrects, guides, and advises not out of harsh judgment but out of genuine care and benevolence. This blend ensures her speech is not only accurate but also constructive and encouraging. Her tongue is an instrument for building up, resolving conflict with grace, and imparting valuable life lessons, all flowing consistently from a heart dedicated to righteousness and love for those in her sphere of influence. Her home becomes a place where wise and kind counsel is readily available, shaping the character of her family through both example and word.