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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/10-19.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/20_Pro_10_19.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 10:19 - Solomon's Proverbs: The Wise Son" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/proverbs/10-19.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/proverbs/10-19.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/proverbs/">Proverbs</a> > <a href="/proverbs/10.htm">Chapter 10</a> > Verse 19</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad19.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/proverbs/10-18.htm" title="Proverbs 10:18">◄</a> Proverbs 10:19 <a href="/proverbs/10-20.htm" title="Proverbs 10:20">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/10.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/10.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/10.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/10.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/10.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/10.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips <i>is</i> wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/10.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips <i>is</i> wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/10.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />When there are many words, wrongdoing is unavoidable, But one who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/10.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/10.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/10.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who holds back his lips has insight.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/10.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />When there are many words, transgression <i>and</i> offense are unavoidable, But he who controls his lips <i>and</i> keeps thoughtful silence is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/10.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/10.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/10.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression; But he that refraineth his lips doeth wisely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/10.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />You will say the wrong thing if you talk too much--so be sensible and watch what you say. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/10.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression: but he that refraineth his lips doeth wisely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/10.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Sin is unavoidable when there is much talk, but whoever seals his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/10.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />The more you talk, the more likely you are to sin. If you are wise, you will keep quiet. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/10.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Transgression is at work where people talk too much, but anyone who holds his tongue is prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/10.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/10.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />When words abound, transgression is inevitable, but the one who restrains his words is wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/10.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/10.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that restraineth his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/10.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/10.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />In the abundance of words transgression does not cease, "" And whoever is restraining his lips [is] wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/10.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> In the abundance of words transgression ceaseth not, And whoso is restraining his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/10.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />In the multitude of words transgression shall not cease: and he withholding his lips is prudent.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/10.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there shall not want sin: but he that refraineth his lips is most wise. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/10.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />In a multitude of speaking, sin will not be lacking. But whoever tempers his lips is most prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/10.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Where words are many, sin is not wanting; but those who restrain their lips do well. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/10.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but the prudent are restrained in speech.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/10.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />The wicked cannot be delivered by a multitude of words; but he who refrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/10.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />In the multitude of words the evil one is not saved and he who restrains his lips is intelligent.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/10.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression; But he that refraineth his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/10.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />By a multitude of words thou shalt not escape sin; but if thou refrain thy lips thou wilt be prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/10-19.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=1798" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/10.htm">Solomon's Proverbs: The Wise Son</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">18</span>The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. <span class="reftext">19</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: də·ḇā·rîm (N-mp) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause.">When words</a> <a href="/hebrew/7230.htm" title="7230: bə·rōḇ (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- Multitude, abundance, greatness. From rabab; abundance.">are many,</a> <a href="/hebrew/6588.htm" title="6588: pā·ša‘ (N-ms) -- Transgression. From pasha'; a revolt.">sin</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">is unavoidable,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2308.htm" title="2308: yeḥ·dal- (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To cease. A primitive root; properly, to be flabby, i.e. desist; be lacking or idle."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2820.htm" title="2820: wə·ḥō·śêḵ (Conj-w:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To withhold, refrain. A primitive root; to restrain or Refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; also to observe.">but he who restrains</a> <a href="/hebrew/8193.htm" title="8193: śə·p̄ā·ṯāw (N-fdc:: 3ms) -- Or sepheth; probably from caphah or shaphah through the idea of termination; the lip; by implication, language; by analogy, a margin.">his lips</a> <a href="/hebrew/7919.htm" title="7919: maś·kîl (V-Hifil-Prtcpl-ms) -- To be, circumspect, intelligent. A primitive root; to be circumspect and hence, intelligent.">is wise.</a> </span><span class="reftext">20</span>The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked has little worth.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a></span><br />My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2</a></span><br />We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a></span><br />But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. / For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2</a></span><br />Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Proverbs 17:27-28</a></span><br />A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Ephesians 4:29</a></span><br />Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a></span><br />He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-23.htm">Proverbs 21:23</a></span><br />He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Colossians 4:6</a></span><br />Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/141-3.htm">Psalm 141:3</a></span><br />Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/15-28.htm">Proverbs 15:28</a></span><br />The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a></span><br />Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/15-18.htm">Matthew 15:18-19</a></span><br />But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these things defile a man. / For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/29-20.htm">Proverbs 29:20</a></span><br />Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a></span><br />For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">In the multitude of words there wants not sin: but he that refrains his lips is wise.</p><p class="hdg">the multitude</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-3.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:3</a></b></br> For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice <i>is known</i> by multitude of words.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 10:13,14</a></b></br> The beginning of the words of his mouth <i>is</i> foolishness: and the end of his talk <i>is</i> mischievous madness… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2</a></b></br> For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same <i>is</i> a perfect man, <i>and</i> able also to bridle the whole body.</p><p class="hdg">but</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Proverbs 17:27,28</a></b></br> He that hath knowledge spareth his words: <i>and</i> a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician, <i>even</i> to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a></b></br> Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/genesis/31-49.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-23.htm">Abundance</a> <a href="/psalms/49-8.htm">Ceaseth</a> <a href="/psalms/107-17.htm">Disobedience</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-23.htm">End</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-35.htm">Holds</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-6.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-23.htm">Lack</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-14.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/psalms/109-30.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-5.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/genesis/43-31.htm">Refraineth</a> <a href="/job/37-4.htm">Restraineth</a> <a href="/job/30-13.htm">Restrains</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-16.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-8.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-13.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/psalms/107-17.htm">Transgression</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-16.htm">Wanteth</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-14.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-5.htm">Wisely</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-8.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/2-38.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-14.htm">Abundance</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-20.htm">Ceaseth</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-19.htm">Disobedience</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-28.htm">End</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-12.htm">Holds</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-4.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-14.htm">Lack</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-31.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-14.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-16.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/genesis/43-31.htm">Refraineth</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-16.htm">Restraineth</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Restrains</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-5.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-13.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-20.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-23.htm">Transgression</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-16.htm">Wanteth</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-23.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-35.htm">Wisely</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-6.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 10</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/10-1.htm">Proverbs of Solomon: observations of moral virtues, and their contrary vices</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/10.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/10.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>When words are many,</b><br>This phrase highlights the potential danger of excessive speech. In biblical times, as today, the spoken word held significant power. Proverbs often contrasts the wise and the foolish, and here, verbosity is linked to folly. The culture of ancient Israel valued wisdom and discernment, often conveyed through concise and thoughtful speech. The emphasis on the quantity of words reflects a broader biblical theme found in <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2</a>, which advises against hasty speech before God.<p><b>sin is unavoidable,</b><br>The inevitability of sin with excessive talking underscores the human tendency to err, especially when not exercising self-control. <a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2-12</a> elaborates on the power of the tongue, describing it as a small part of the body that can cause great harm. The historical context of Proverbs, a book of wisdom literature, often addresses the moral and ethical conduct expected of God's people. The idea that sin is unavoidable with many words serves as a warning to guard one's speech, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of the fallibility of human nature.<p><b>but he who restrains his lips</b><br>Restraint in speech is portrayed as a virtue. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, where honor and shame were significant societal values, controlling one's words was a sign of wisdom and maturity. This restraint is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to be "quick to listen, slow to speak" (<a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a>). The ability to hold one's tongue is seen as a mark of self-discipline and spiritual maturity, reflecting the character of those who seek to live righteously.<p><b>is wise.</b><br>Wisdom, a central theme in Proverbs, is often associated with the fear of the Lord (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>). The wise person, in this context, is one who understands the power of words and exercises discretion. This wisdom is not merely intellectual but deeply practical, influencing daily behavior and relationships. The restraint in speech is a reflection of inner wisdom, aligning with the character of Jesus Christ, who exemplified perfect wisdom and self-control in His interactions, often choosing silence over unnecessary words (<a href="/isaiah/53-7.htm">Isaiah 53:7</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs offer practical guidance for living a life that honors God.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/ancient_israel.htm">Ancient Israel</a></b><br>The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written. The Israelites valued wisdom and saw it as a gift from God, essential for righteous living.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_literature.htm">Wisdom Literature</a></b><br>Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Job and Ecclesiastes. These writings focus on practical and philosophical aspects of life.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_words.htm">The Power of Words</a></b><br>Words have the power to build up or tear down. Recognizing this power should lead us to be cautious and intentional with our speech.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_excessive_talking.htm">The Danger of Excessive Talking</a></b><br>The more we speak, the greater the risk of saying something sinful or harmful. Practicing restraint can prevent unnecessary conflict and sin.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_in_silence.htm">Wisdom in Silence</a></b><br>Sometimes, the wisest course of action is to remain silent. Silence can be a form of strength and wisdom, allowing us to listen and understand better.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/self-control_and_speech.htm">Self-Control and Speech</a></b><br>Controlling our tongue is a sign of maturity and self-discipline. It reflects a heart that seeks to honor God in all things.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_god's_help.htm">Seeking God's Help</a></b><br>We should pray for God's guidance to help us control our speech, asking for wisdom to know when to speak and when to remain silent.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_10.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 10</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_overtalking.htm">What does the Bible say about excessive talking?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_show_love_and_kindness.htm">When is it time to be silent or speak?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/when_is_it_time_to_be_silent_or_speak.htm">When is it time to be silent or speak?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_sexual_desires.htm">What does 'quick to listen, slow to speak' mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/10.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(19) <span class= "bld">In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin, </span>for they are sure to fail in truthfulness, or charity, or opportuneness, and will come under the condemnation of <a href="/matthew/12-36.htm" title="But I say to you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.">Matthew 12:36</a>, as being the outcome of a careless heart.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/10.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 19.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">There wanteth not sin;</span> LXX., "Thou wilt not avoid sin." Loquacity leads to exaggeration and untruthfulness, slander and uncharitableness (comp. <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-1.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:1-3</a>; and Christ's and James's solemn warnings, <a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36</a>; <a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a>; <a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2</a>, etc.). "Speak little," says Pinart ('Meditations,' ch. 6.), "because for one sin which we may commit by keeping silence where it would be well to speak, we commit a hundred by speaking upon all occasions" (see on Proverbs 17:27), Another rendering of the passage gives "By multitude of words sin does not vanish away;" <span class="accented">i.e.</span> you cannot mend a fault by much talking. But this weakens the contrast, and the Authorized Version is correct. <span class="cmt_word">Is wise.</span> St. James calls the reticent "a perfect man" (comp. <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a>). "This sentence of Scripture," says St. Augustine, in his 'Retractations,' "I greatly fear, because my numerous treatises, I know well, contain many things, if not false, at any rate idle and unnecessary." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/10-19.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">When words</span><br /><span class="heb">דְּ֭בָרִים</span> <span class="translit">(də·ḇā·rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1697.htm">Strong's 1697: </a> </span><span class="str2">A word, a matter, thing, a cause</span><br /><br /><span class="word">are many,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּרֹ֣ב</span> <span class="translit">(bə·rōḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7230.htm">Strong's 7230: </a> </span><span class="str2">Multitude, abundance, greatness</span><br /><br /><span class="word">sin</span><br /><span class="heb">פָּ֑שַׁע</span> <span class="translit">(pā·ša‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6588.htm">Strong's 6588: </a> </span><span class="str2">Transgression</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is unavoidable,</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֣א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but he who restrains</span><br /><span class="heb">וְחֹשֵׂ֖ךְ</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḥō·śêḵ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2820.htm">Strong's 2820: </a> </span><span class="str2">To restrain, refrain, to refuse, spare, preserve, to observe</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his lips</span><br /><span class="heb">שְׂפָתָ֣יו</span> <span class="translit">(śə·p̄ā·ṯāw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - fdc | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8193.htm">Strong's 8193: </a> </span><span class="str2">The lip, language, a margin</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is wise.</span><br /><span class="heb">מַשְׂכִּֽיל׃</span> <span class="translit">(maś·kîl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7919.htm">Strong's 7919: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be, circumspect, intelligent</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/10-19.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words there (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/10-18.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 10:18"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 10:18" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/10-20.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 10:20"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 10:20" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>