Proverbs 10:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 10:20
20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 10 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, righteousness, holiness. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 10:20
20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.
Analysis
The tongue of the just is as choice silver; the heart of the wicked is little worth. Righteous speech is precious and valuable like refined silver. Conversely, wicked hearts (and thus their speech flowing from hearts) are worthless. The contrast emphasizes both inner character (heart) and outer expression (tongue). What makes righteous speech valuable is the valuable heart from which it flows.
Historical Context
Silver required refining to remove impurities, making it valuable. Righteous speech similarly requires heart purification to produce valuable words worth heeding.
Reflection
- How valuable is your speech to others - choice silver or worthless dross?
- What heart impurities need refining to produce more valuable speech?
Cross-References
- Evil: Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 12:18