Proverbs 16:13
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
Original Language Analysis
שִׂפְתֵי
lips
H8193
שִׂפְתֵי
lips
Strong's:
H8193
Word #:
3 of 7
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
צֶ֑דֶק
Righteous
H6664
צֶ֑דֶק
Righteous
Strong's:
H6664
Word #:
4 of 7
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
וְדֹבֵ֖ר
him that speaketh
H1696
וְדֹבֵ֖ר
him that speaketh
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
5 of 7
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
Historical Context
Ancient courts were filled with advisors competing for royal favor. The temptation to tell kings what they wanted to hear rather than truth was constant, leading to disastrous policies when lies were preferred over honest counsel.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you speak truth lovingly to those in authority over you, or do you flatter and appease?
- If you're in leadership, do you reward honesty or punish those who bring unwelcome truths?
- How can you cultivate a culture that values 'righteous lips' over smooth flattery?
Analysis & Commentary
Kings delight in 'righteous lips' and love 'him that speaketh right.' The ideal ruler values truth-tellers, not flatterers. The Hebrew 'yashar' (right/upright) describes straightforward, honest speech. This contrasts with Ahab, who preferred false prophets over truth-speaking Micaiah (1 Kings 22). Reformed theology emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power. Leaders who surround themselves with yes-men invite disaster. Wise rulers seek counsel from those who speak God's truth, even when difficult or unwelcome.