Proverbs 12:19
The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
Original Language Analysis
שְֽׂפַת
The lip
H8193
שְֽׂפַת
The lip
Strong's:
H8193
Word #:
1 of 8
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
אֱ֭מֶת
of truth
H571
אֱ֭מֶת
of truth
Strong's:
H571
Word #:
2 of 8
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
תִּכּ֣וֹן
shall be established
H3559
תִּכּ֣וֹן
shall be established
Strong's:
H3559
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
לָעַ֑ד
for ever
H5703
לָעַ֑ד
for ever
Strong's:
H5703
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit
וְעַד
H5704
וְעַד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
5 of 8
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
אַ֝רְגִּ֗יעָה
is but for a moment
H7280
אַ֝רְגִּ֗יעָה
is but for a moment
Strong's:
H7280
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, to toss violently and suddenly (the sea with waves, the skin with boils); figuratively (in a favorable manner) to settle, i.e., quiet; speci
Historical Context
Reflects biblical conviction that God is truth and ensures truth's ultimate triumph. While liars may temporarily succeed, their lies will be exposed and truth established.
Questions for Reflection
- How does confidence in truth's permanence affect your commitment to honesty?
- What lies have you told that seem to be working but will eventually be exposed?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The lip of truth shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment. Truth endures permanently; lies are temporary. This verse promises ultimate vindication of truth and exposure of falsehood. While lies may temporarily deceive, truth eventually prevails. The long-view perspective relativizes temporary deception while affirming truth's permanence.