There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise heals. Truth’s lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only momentary.Proverbs 12:18–19 · World English Bible
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Proverbs 12:17–22
He who is truthful testifies honestly, but a false witness lies. There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise heals. Truth’s lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only momentary. Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but joy comes to the promoters of peace. No mischief shall happen to the righteous, but the wicked shall be filled with evil. Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who do the truth are his delight.
Context note · editorial
The teacher contrasts speech that cuts like a sword with wise words that heal, then contrasts truth with lies. The surrounding sayings also concern honest testimony, making the harm of speech morally serious.
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