Proverbs 10:32
Righteous people know what speech is fitting and pleasing, but the wicked speak what is distorted.
32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked is perverse.
Righteous people know what speech is fitting and pleasing, but the wicked speak what is distorted.
To contrast the discerning and gracious speech that flows from the righteous with the distorted and harmful speech produced by the wicked.
This verse serves as a fitting conclusion to Proverbs 10, returning to the theme of speech that has been woven throughout the chapter. It builds on verse 31 by sharpening the distinction between wise and perverse communication. The emphasis is not only on what is spoken but on knowing what is appropriate, highlighting discernment. Within Proverbs 10, this verse ties together the chapter’s recurring themes of righteousness, wisdom, and speech. It closes by reinforcing that the mouth is a primary expression of one’s moral and spiritual condition.
Proverbs 10:32 reflects a context where speech played a vital role in shaping relationships, justice, and community 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.