Proverbs 17:7
Proverbs 17:7 in Multiple Translations
Eloquent words are unfit for a fool; how much worse are lying lips to a ruler!
Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.
Excellent speech becometh not a fool; Much less do lying lips a prince.
Fair words are not to be looked for from a foolish man, much less are false lips in a ruler.
Fine words don't suit stupid people, how much less are lies suited to a ruler.
Hie talke becommeth not a foole, much lesse a lying talke a prince.
Not comely for a fool is a lip of excellency, Much less for a noble a lip of falsehood.
Excellent speech isn’t fitting for a fool, much less do lying lips fit a prince.
Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.
Eloquent words do not become a fool, nor lying lips a prince.
Fine/Eloquent speech is not suitable for foolish people to say, just like lies are not suitable for rulers to say.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 17:7
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 17:7 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לֹא
נָאוָ֣ה
לְ/נָבָ֣ל
שְׂפַת
יֶ֑תֶר
אַ֝֗ף
כִּֽי
לְ/נָדִ֥יב
שְׂפַת
שָֽׁקֶר
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
נָאוָ֣ה
nâʼveh
H5000
lovely
Adj
לְ/נָבָ֣ל
nâbâl
H5036
foolish
Prep | Adj
שְׂפַת
sâphâh
H8193
lips
N-fs
יֶ֑תֶר
yether
H3499
remainder
N-ms
אַ֝֗ף
ʼaph
H637
also
DirObjM
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
לְ/נָדִ֥יב
nâdîyb
H5081
noble
Prep | Adj
שְׂפַת
sâphâh
H8193
lips
N-fs
שָֽׁקֶר
sheqer
H8267
deception
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 17:7
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
נָאוָ֣ה
nâʼveh
H5000
"lovely"
Adj
This word means something or someone is lovely or beautiful, like a pleasant scene in Genesis. It describes what is suitable or pleasing to the eye. In the Bible, it is used to describe beautiful places or people.
Definition: 1) comely, beautiful, seemly 1a) comely, beautiful 1b) seemly
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: becometh, comely, seemly. See also: Psalms 33:1; Song of Solomon 1:5; Psalms 147:1.
לְ/נָבָ֣ל
nâbâl
H5036
"foolish"
Prep | Adj
A foolish person is someone who acts stupidly or wickedly, often in a way that is impious or against God. This word is used to describe someone who lacks sense or wisdom.
Definition: foolish, senseless, fool
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: fool(-ish, -ish man, -ish woman), vile person. See also: Deuteronomy 32:6; Psalms 74:18; Psalms 14:1.
שְׂפַת
sâphâh
H8193
"lips"
N-fs
This word refers to lips or language, and can also mean the edge or border of something. It is used in the Bible to describe the shore of a sea or the edge of a cup.
Definition: : lips/mouth 1) lip, language, speech, shore, bank, brink, brim, side, edge, border, binding 1a) lip (as body part) 1b) language 1c) edge, shore, bank (of cup, sea, river, etc)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: band, bank, binding, border, brim, brink, edge, language, lip, prating, (sea-)shore, side, speech, talk, (vain) words. See also: Genesis 11:1; Psalms 120:2; Psalms 12:3.
יֶ֑תֶר
yether
H3499
"remainder"
N-ms
A cord or rope, also meaning excess or remainder, as seen in the Bible's descriptions of leftovers or abundant resources.
Definition: 1) remainder, excess, rest, remnant, excellence 1a) remainder, remnant 1b) remainder, rest, other part 1c) excess 1d) abundantly (adv) 1e) abundance, affluence 1f) superiority, excellency
Usage: Occurs in 95 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] abundant, cord, exceeding, excellancy(-ent), what they leave, that hath left, plentifully, remnant, residue, rest, string, with. See also: Genesis 49:3; 2 Kings 15:26; Psalms 11:2.
אַ֝֗ף
ʼaph
H637
"also"
DirObjM
The Hebrew word for 'also' or 'addition', used to connect ideas or show a relationship between them, as seen in Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean 'though' or 'yet', indicating a contrast. This word is often used to add emphasis or provide more information.
Definition: conj (denoting addition, esp of something greater) 1) also, yea, though, so much the more adv 2) furthermore, indeed Aramaic equivalent: aph (אַף "also" H0638)
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: also, [phrase] although, and (furthermore, yet), but, even, [phrase] how much less (more, rather than), moreover, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:1; Psalms 16:6; Psalms 16:7.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
לְ/נָדִ֥יב
nâdîyb
H5081
"noble"
Prep | Adj
Noble or generous, describing someone of high rank or character, like a prince, or a person with a willing and liberal heart, as seen in the stories of David and Solomon.
Definition: : noble n m 1) noble one adj 2) inclined, willing, noble, generous 1a) incited, inclined, willing 1b) noble, princely (in rank) 1c) noble (in mind and character)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: free, liberal (things), noble, prince, willing (hearted). See also: Exodus 35:5; Psalms 113:8; Psalms 47:10.
שְׂפַת
sâphâh
H8193
"lips"
N-fs
This word refers to lips or language, and can also mean the edge or border of something. It is used in the Bible to describe the shore of a sea or the edge of a cup.
Definition: : lips/mouth 1) lip, language, speech, shore, bank, brink, brim, side, edge, border, binding 1a) lip (as body part) 1b) language 1c) edge, shore, bank (of cup, sea, river, etc)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: band, bank, binding, border, brim, brink, edge, language, lip, prating, (sea-)shore, side, speech, talk, (vain) words. See also: Genesis 11:1; Psalms 120:2; Psalms 12:3.
שָֽׁקֶר
sheqer
H8267
"deception"
N-ms
This word refers to deception or falsehood, often implying a sense of betrayal or disappointment. It's used in the Bible to describe lies, false testimony, or deceitful behavior, like in Psalm 116:11, where the psalmist says all men are liars.
Definition: 1) lie, deception, disappointment, falsehood 1a) deception (what deceives or disappoints or betrays one) 1b) deceit, fraud, wrong 1b1) fraudulently, wrongfully (as adverb) 1c) falsehood (injurious in testimony) 1c1) testify falsehood, false oath, swear falsely 1d) falsity (of false or self-deceived prophets) 1e) lie, falsehood (in general) 1e1) false tongue 1f) in vain
Usage: Occurs in 109 OT verses. KJV: without a cause, deceit(-ful), false(-hood, -ly), feignedly, liar, [phrase] lie, lying, vain (thing), wrongfully. See also: Exodus 5:9; Proverbs 25:18; Psalms 7:15.
Study Notes — Proverbs 17:7
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 17:7 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 17:7
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 17:7
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 17:7
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 17:7
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
- Sermons on Proverbs 17:7
Context — Better a Dry Morsel in Quietness
5He who mocks the poor insults their Maker; whoever gloats over calamity will not go unpunished.
6Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of a son is his father.
7Eloquent words are unfit for a fool; how much worse are lying lips to a ruler!
8A bribe is a charm to its giver; wherever he turns, he succeeds. 9Whoever conceals an offense promotes love, but he who brings it up separates friends.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 29:12 | If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials will be wicked. |
| 2 | Proverbs 12:19 | Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. |
| 3 | Psalms 50:16–17 | To the wicked, however, God says, “What right have you to recite My statutes and to bear My covenant on your lips? For you hate My instruction and cast My words behind you. |
| 4 | Proverbs 26:7 | Like lame legs hanging limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 23:3 | The God of Israel spoke; the Rock of Israel said to me, ‘He who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God, |
| 6 | Proverbs 16:10–13 | A divine verdict is on the lips of a king; his mouth must not betray justice. Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the weights in the bag are His concern. Wicked behavior is detestable to kings, for a throne is established through righteousness. Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he who speaks honestly is beloved. |
| 7 | Matthew 7:5 | You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. |
| 8 | Psalms 101:3–5 | I will set no worthless thing before my eyes. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil. Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not endure. |
| 9 | Job 34:12 | Indeed, it is true that God does not act wickedly, and the Almighty does not pervert justice. |
Proverbs 17:7 Summary
This verse reminds us that it's not just what we say, but who we say it to, that matters. Even the most beautiful or persuasive words can be wasted on someone who isn't listening or doesn't care, as seen in Proverbs 17:7. On the other hand, speaking lies or dishonesty to someone in authority can have serious consequences, as warned in Proverbs 29:12. As followers of God, we're called to speak the truth in love, as in Ephesians 4:15, and to be mindful of our words and their impact on others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for 'eloquent words' to be 'unfit for a fool'?
This means that even beautiful or persuasive speech is wasted on someone who lacks wisdom or discernment, as seen in Proverbs 17:7, and is a reminder that our words should be chosen wisely, as in Proverbs 12:18.
Why are 'lying lips' especially problematic for a ruler?
Lying lips are particularly damaging for a ruler because they can lead to unjust decisions and erosion of trust, as warned in Proverbs 29:12, and are contrary to the standard of truth and integrity expected of leaders, as in Proverbs 16:13.
How does this verse relate to our everyday conversations?
This verse encourages us to be mindful of our audience and to speak truthfully, especially to those in positions of authority, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:25 and Colossians 3:9-10.
What is the significance of contrasting 'eloquent words' with 'lying lips'?
The contrast highlights the importance of sincerity and honesty in our communication, as lying lips can damage relationships and reputations, while eloquent words can build trust and understanding, as seen in Proverbs 24:26.
Reflection Questions
- In what situations am I tempted to use 'eloquent words' to impress or manipulate others, rather than speaking truthfully and simply?
- How can I ensure that my words are 'fit' for my audience, whether they are wise or foolish?
- What are some ways I can promote truth and integrity in my conversations, especially with those in positions of authority?
- What would happen if I consistently spoke the truth, even when it's difficult, and how would this impact my relationships and witness?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 17:7
Excellent speech becometh not a fool,.... A wicked man. Eloquence, or a sublime grand way of speaking, a copiousness and fluency of expression, become not such; because hereby he may be capable of
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 17:7
Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince. Excellent speech (a lip of excellency) becometh not a fool; much less do lying lips (a lip of lying) a prince.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
Excellent speech; either, 1. Discourse of high and excellent things far above his capacity. Or, 2. Lofty or eloquent speech, which fools oft affect, Or, 3. Virtuous and godly discourse. A fool; either properly so called; or, as this word is most commonly used in this book, a wicked man, whose actions give the lie to his expressions.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
Proverbs 17:7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.Ver. 7. Excellent speech becometh not a fool.] A Nabal, a sapless, worthless fellow, in whom all worth is withered and decayed, - qui nullas habet dicendi vires, as Cicero hath it, that can say no good except it be by rote, or at least by book, - what should he do discoursing of high points? God likes not fair words from a foul mouth. Christ silenced the devil when he confessed him to be the Son of the most high God. The leper’ s lips should be covered, according to the law. The Lacedemonians, when a bad man had uttered a good speech in their council house, liking the speech but not the speaker, commanded one of better carriage to give the same counsel, and then they made use of it. The people of Rome sware they would not believe Carbo though he sware. Much less do lying lips a prince.] Or any ingenuous man, as some render it. A prince’ s bare word should be better security than another man’ s oath, said Alphonsns, King of Arragon. When Amurath, the great Turk, was exhorted by his cruel son, Mohammed, to break his faith with the inhabitants of Sfetigrade, in Epirus, he would not listen, saying, "That he which was desirous to be great among men, must either be indeed faithful of his word and promise, or at least seem to be so." - thereby to gain the minds of the people, who naturally abhor the government of a faithless and cruel prince.
What a foul blur was that to Christian religion, that Ladislaus King of Hungary should, by the persuasion of the Pope’ s envoy, break his oath given to this Amurath at the great battle of Varna, and thereby open the mouth of that dead dog to rail upon Jesus Christ! And how will the Papists ever be able to wipe off from their religion that stain that lies upon it ever since the Emperor Sigismund, by the consent and advice of the Council of Constance, brake his promise of safe conduct to John Huss and Jerome of Prague, and burnt them! But they have a rule to walk by now, Fides cum haereticis non est servanda: Promises made to heretics are not to be observed. And it is for merchants, say they, and not for princes, to stand to their oaths, any further than may stand with the public good. This divinity they may seem to have drawn out of Plato, who, in his third Dialogue of the Commonwealth, saith, That if it be lawful for any one to lie, it may be lawful doubtless for princes and governors, that aim therein at the public welfare. But God, by the mouth of his servant and secretary, Solomon, here assures us it is otherwise. Odi hominem; ignava opera, philosopha sententia. Liv. Turkish History, fol. 321. Turkish History, fol. 291.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
(7) Excellent speech becometh not a fool.—Rather, perhaps, Superfluous or pretentious words become not a vile person (nâbhâl), such as is described in Isaiah 32:6. (Comp. 1 Samuel 25:25.) Much less do lying lips a prince.—Or, liberal person (Isaiah 32:8): noblesse oblige.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
Verse 7. Excellent speech becometh not a fool] This proverb is suitable to those who affect, in public speaking, fine language, which neither comports with their ordinary conversation, nor with their education. Often fine words are injudiciously brought in, and are as unbecoming and irrelevant as a cart wheel among clockwork.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 17:7
7. Excellent] Or, arrogant, R.V. marg.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 17:7
The margin renderings are more literal and give greater emphasis. What is pointed out is not the unfitness of lying lips for the princely-hearted, but the necessity of harmony, in each case, between character and speech.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 17:7
7. Excellent speech — Hebrew, lips of excellence. A fool — Several different words in this book are rendered by our word fool. They all seem to imply some bad qualifies, moral as well as intellectual.
Sermons on Proverbs 17:7
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Deserting Principal for Convenience by Ernest Woodhouse | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Proverbs 29 and discusses the importance of standing up for principles and doing what is right, rather than what is convenient. He highlight |
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The Witness of Truth by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being people of truth and living a sincere and authentic life. He shares a personal story about his daughter's mission work |
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Truth Established by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the enduring nature of truth as expressed in Proverbs 12:19, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of falsehood. He encourages believers to remain steadf |
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Walking in Truth by A.W. Tozer | A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of walking in truth, arguing that compromising with error to escape the burdens of righteousness is not an option for true followers of Christ. |
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Hell to Pay by Steve Hill | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fearing God and keeping His commandments. He warns that God will judge every secret thing, whether good or evil, at the end |
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The Last Day Return to Discernment - Part 2 by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of unity and agreement among believers. He quotes from Psalm 50:22, warning those who forget God that they will face conseque |
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God Is a Holy God by Brian Long | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for believers to regain a proper understanding of the glory, majesty, and holiness of God. They highlight the severity of sin in the |