Proverbs 10:21
Righteous speech nourishes many, but fools perish through lack of wisdom.
21 The lips of the righteous feed many, but the foolish die for lack of understanding.
Righteous speech nourishes many, but fools perish through lack of wisdom.
To contrast the life-giving influence of the speech of the righteous with the destructive consequences of folly among those who lack wisdom.
This proverb continues the extended theme of speech and its impact found throughout Proverbs 10. Building on verse 20, which emphasized the value of righteous speech, this verse expands its effect outward to others. The imagery shifts from value to nourishment, highlighting the communal benefit of wise words. In contrast, the fool’s lack of understanding results not merely in poor speech but in ultimate ruin. Within the broader structure, this verse reinforces that wisdom blesses others, while folly leads to self-destruction.
Proverbs 10:21 reflects a teaching culture where instruction was primarily oral and leaders played a key role in guiding communities through speech. Words were a primary means of sustaining both knowledge and life.
The Righteous and the Wicked: Wisdom in Speech, Work, Wealth, and Life
The righteous and the wicked are revealed in ordinary life, especially in speech, work, wealth, discipline, and desire, and the LORD's moral order leads the righteous toward life while folly moves the wicked toward ruin.