Proverbs 15:23
A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!
Original Language Analysis
לָ֭אִישׁ
A man
H376
לָ֭אִישׁ
A man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
2 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
פִ֑יו
of his mouth
H6310
פִ֑יו
of his mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
4 of 8
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
וְדָבָ֖ר
and a word
H1697
וְדָבָ֖ר
and a word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
5 of 8
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
בְּעִתּ֣וֹ
spoken in due season
H6256
בְּעִתּ֣וֹ
spoken in due season
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
6 of 8
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
Cross References
Isaiah 50:4The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.Ephesians 4:29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.Proverbs 12:14A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.Proverbs 16:13Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.Proverbs 24:26Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.Ecclesiastes 3:1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Historical Context
Wisdom teachers were valued for ability to speak appropriately to diverse situations. Daniel, Joseph, and others demonstrated this skill in pagan courts, bringing glory to God through wise speech.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you cultivate sensitivity to speak the right word at the right time?
- When has someone's apt word brought you joy through its perfect timeliness?
Analysis & Commentary
Apt answers bring joy to the speaker and hearer. Words fitly spoken meet needs with timely truth and grace. This requires wisdom to discern what, when, and how to speak for maximum benefit. Gospel ministry involves such fitting application of eternal truth to particular circumstances.