Proverbs 16:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 16:27
27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 16 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, mercy, love. 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 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 16:27
27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.
Analysis
An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire. Ish beliyya'al koreh ra'ah (אִישׁ בְּלִיַּעַל כֹּרֶה רָעָה, a worthless man digs up evil). Beliyya'al (בְּלִיַּעַל, worthless, wicked, destructive) describes someone who excavates evil like mining for treasure. Ve'al-sefotav ke'esh tsoreevet (וְעַל־שְׂפֹתָיו כְּאֵשׁ צָרָבֶת, and on his lips like scorching fire). His speech burns destructively. The proverb warns that wicked people actively seek evil and speak destructively. James 3:6 describes the tongue as fire that sets the whole course of nature ablaze. Believers must guard against destructive speech.
Historical Context
Fire imagery represented uncontrolled destruction in ancient contexts—wildfires, arson, warfare. Malicious speech could destroy reputations, provoke wars, incite violence. Biblical examples include Doeg's slander leading to priests' massacre (1 Samuel 22:9-19), Haman's scheming against Jews (Esther 3), and false witnesses condemning Stephen (Acts 6:11-14). The proverb warned against becoming such destructive people or falling victim to them.
Reflection
- Are you digging up evil (seeking opportunities to criticize, gossip, slander) or burying it in love (covering offenses)?
- How is your speech like fire—does it warm and illuminate, or burn and destroy?
- What safeguards can prevent your tongue from becoming a destructive fire (James 3:5-6)?
Cross-References
- Evil: Proverbs 6:12, 1 Samuel 25:17
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 6:14, Psalms 57:4, Isaiah 5:18, James 3:6