Proverbs 8:7

Authorized King James Version

PDF

For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

Original Language Analysis

כִּֽי H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֱ֭מֶת truth H571
אֱ֭מֶת truth
Strong's: H571
Word #: 2 of 7
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
יֶהְגֶּ֣ה shall speak H1897
יֶהְגֶּ֣ה shall speak
Strong's: H1897
Word #: 3 of 7
to murmur (in pleasure or anger); by implication, to ponder
חִכִּ֑י For my mouth H2441
חִכִּ֑י For my mouth
Strong's: H2441
Word #: 4 of 7
properly, the palate or inside of the mouth; hence, the mouth itself (as the organ of speech, taste and kissing)
וְתוֹעֲבַ֖ת is an abomination H8441
וְתוֹעֲבַ֖ת is an abomination
Strong's: H8441
Word #: 5 of 7
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
שְׂפָתַ֣י to my lips H8193
שְׂפָתַ֣י to my lips
Strong's: H8193
Word #: 6 of 7
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
רֶֽשַׁע׃ and wickedness H7562
רֶֽשַׁע׃ and wickedness
Strong's: H7562
Word #: 7 of 7
a wrong (especially moral)

Analysis & Commentary

Wisdom speaks 'right things' (Hebrew 'nagiyd'—what is straightforward and truthful), and her lips 'abhor wickedness.' This establishes wisdom's moral character—absolute commitment to truth and hatred of evil. This reflects God's nature: He cannot lie (Titus 1:2) and is of such pure eyes He cannot look upon iniquity (Habakkuk 1:13). Reformed theology emphasizes God's holiness as foundational to His character. True wisdom, because it flows from God, shares this moral perfection. Any 'wisdom' that compromises truth or tolerates evil is false.

Historical Context

In ancient courts, advisors who spoke only to please kings led to disaster (1 Kings 22:6-28). True wisdom required courage to speak truth even when unpopular, reflecting the prophetic tradition in Israel.

Questions for Reflection