Proverbs 11:13
A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
Original Language Analysis
הוֹלֵ֣ךְ
A talebearer
H1980
הוֹלֵ֣ךְ
A talebearer
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
1 of 8
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
מְגַלֶּה
revealeth
H1540
מְגַלֶּה
revealeth
Strong's:
H1540
Word #:
3 of 8
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
סּ֑וֹד
secrets
H5475
סּ֑וֹד
secrets
Strong's:
H5475
Word #:
4 of 8
a session, i.e., company of persons (in close deliberation); by implication, intimacy, consultation, a secret
וְנֶאֱמַן
but he that is of a faithful
H539
וְנֶאֱמַן
but he that is of a faithful
Strong's:
H539
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen
ר֝֗וּחַ
spirit
H7307
ר֝֗וּחַ
spirit
Strong's:
H7307
Word #:
6 of 8
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
Cross References
Proverbs 20:19He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.Leviticus 19:16Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.Proverbs 25:9Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:1 Timothy 5:13And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.Proverbs 14:5A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.Joshua 2:14And the men answered her, Our life for your's, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.
Historical Context
In small ancient communities, talebearing could destroy reputations and relationships permanently. The faithful person's restraint preserved social cohesion essential for covenant community life.
Questions for Reflection
- How carefully do you guard confidences shared with you?
- When is speaking about others' faults necessary versus gossip?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The talebearer violates trust and destroys community bonds through gossip. Faithful spirit conceals matters, demonstrating discretion and love that covers offenses (1 Peter 4:8). This reflects the ninth commandment's protection of reputation and the positive duty to guard others' honor.