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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 26:25 When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/26-25.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/20_Pro_26_25.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 26:25 - Similitudes and Instructions" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart." /><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/26-25.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/26-25.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/26.htm">Chapter 26</a> > Verse 25</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="/ad5.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/26-24.htm" title="Proverbs 26:24">◄</a> Proverbs 26:25 <a href="/proverbs/26-26.htm" title="Proverbs 26:26">►</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/26.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/26.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Though their speech is charming, do not believe them, for seven abominations fill their hearts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/26.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />They pretend to be kind, but don’t believe them. Their hearts are full of many evils.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/26.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />when he speaks graciously, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/26.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/26.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for <i>there are</i> seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/26.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />When he speaks kindly, do not believe him, For <i>there are</i> seven abominations in his heart;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/26.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, Because there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/26.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, For there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/26.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, For there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/26.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />When he makes his voice gracious, do not believe him, For there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/26.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously <i>and</i> kindly [to conceal his malice], do not trust him, For seven abominations are in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/26.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, don’t believe him, for there are seven detestable things in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/26.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, don&#8217t believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/26.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />When he speaketh fair, believe him not; For there are seven abominations in his heart:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/26.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />than can be counted--so don't believe a word! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/26.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />When he speaketh fair, believe him not; for there are seven abominations in his heart:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/26.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />When he talks charmingly, do not trust him because of the seven disgusting things in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/26.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />They may sound fine, but don't believe him, because his heart is filled to the brim with hate. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/26.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Though he speaks graciously, don't believe him, for there are seven detestable things in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/26.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/26.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations within him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/26.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />When his speech is charming, do not believe him; for there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/26.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/26.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />When his speech is charming, don’t believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/26.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />When his voice is gracious do not trust in him, "" For seven abominations [are] in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/26.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> When his voice is gracious trust not in him, For seven abominations are in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/26.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />When his voice will compassionate, thou shalt not believe him, for seven abominations in his heart.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/26.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />When he shall speak low, trust him not: because there are seven mischiefs in his heart. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/26.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />When he will have lowered his voice, do not believe him, for there are seven vices in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/26.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />When they speak graciously, do not trust them, for seven abominations are in their hearts. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/26.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />when an enemy speaks graciously, do not believe it, for there are seven abominations concealed within;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/26.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Though he speaks in a gentle tone, believe him not; for there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/26.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And if he makes his voice gentle, do not believe him, because seven evils are within him.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/26.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />When he speaketh fair, Believe him not; For there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/26.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Though <i>thine</i> enemy intreat thee with a loud voice, consent not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/26-25.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=5448" 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/26.htm">Similitudes and Instructions</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">24</span>A hateful man disguises himself with his speech, but he lays up deceit in his heart. <span class="reftext">25</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">When</a> <a href="/hebrew/6963.htm" title="6963: qō·w·lōw (N-msc:: 3ms) -- Sound, voice. Or qol; from an unused root meaning to call aloud; a voice or sound.">he speaks</a> <a href="/hebrew/2603.htm" title="2603: yə·ḥan·nên (V-Piel-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore.">graciously,</a> <a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: ’al- (Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/539.htm" title="539: ta·’ă·men- (V-Hifil-Imperf.Jus-2ms) -- To confirm, support. ">believe</a> <a href="/hebrew/bōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- ">him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/7651.htm" title="7651: še·ḇa‘ (Number-fs) -- Or shibrah; from shaba'; a primitive cardinal number; seven; also seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number.">seven</a> <a href="/hebrew/8441.htm" title="8441: tō·w·‘ê·ḇō·wṯ (N-fp) -- Or tonebah; feminine active participle of ta'ab; properly, something disgusting, i.e. an abhorrence; especially idolatry or an idol.">abominations</a> <a href="/hebrew/3820.htm" title="3820: bə·lib·bōw (Prep-b:: N-msc:: 3ms) -- A form of lebab; the heart; also used very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.">fill his heart.</a> </span><span class="reftext">26</span>Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.…<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="/jeremiah/9-8.htm">Jeremiah 9:8</a></span><br />Their tongues are deadly arrows; they speak deception. With his mouth a man speaks peace to his neighbor, but in his heart he sets a trap for him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/55-21.htm">Psalm 55:21</a></span><br />His speech is smooth as butter, but war is in his heart. His words are softer than oil, yet they are swords unsheathed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/23-27.htm">Matthew 23:27-28</a></span><br />Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. / In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18</a></span><br />For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/28-3.htm">Psalm 28:3</a></span><br />Do not drag me away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, who speak peace to their neighbors while malice is in their hearts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-15.htm">Matthew 7:15</a></span><br />Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">2 Corinthians 11:13-15</a></span><br />For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. / And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. / It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/12-2.htm">Psalm 12:2</a></span><br />They lie to one another; they speak with flattering lips and a double heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_peter/2-1.htm">2 Peter 2:1-3</a></span><br />Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. / Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. / In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/29-13.htm">Isaiah 29:13</a></span><br />Therefore the Lord said: “These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is but rules taught by men.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/4-1.htm">1 John 4:1</a></span><br />Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ezekiel/33-31.htm">Ezekiel 33:31</a></span><br />So My people come to you as usual, sit before you, and hear your words; but they do not put them into practice. Although they express love with their mouths, their hearts pursue dishonest gain.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/15-8.htm">Matthew 15:8</a></span><br />‘These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-5.htm">2 Timothy 3:5</a></span><br />having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/micah/3-5.htm">Micah 3:5</a></span><br />This is what the LORD says: “As for the prophets who lead My people astray, who proclaim peace while they chew with their teeth, but declare war against one who puts nothing in their mouths:</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">When he speaks fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/12-2.htm">Psalm 12:2</a></b></br> They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: <i>with</i> flattering lips <i>and</i> with a double heart do they speak.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/28-3.htm">Psalm 28:3</a></b></br> Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief <i>is</i> in their hearts.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/9-2.htm">Jeremiah 9:2-8</a></b></br> Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they <i>be</i> all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men… </p><p class="hdg">believe</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/12-6.htm">Jeremiah 12:6</a></b></br> For even thy brethren, and the house of thy father, even they have dealt treacherously with thee; yea, they have called a multitude after thee: believe them not, though they speak fair words unto thee.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/24-23.htm">Matthew 24:23</a></b></br> Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here <i>is</i> Christ, or there; believe <i>it</i> not.</p><p class="hdg">seven</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/6-16.htm">Proverbs 6:16-19</a></b></br> These six <i>things</i> doth the LORD hate: yea, seven <i>are</i> an abomination unto him: … </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/6-16.htm">Abominations</a> <a href="/psalms/106-24.htm">Belief</a> <a href="/psalms/119-66.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/psalms/58-5.htm">Charming</a> <a href="/psalms/140-2.htm">Evils</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-7.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-14.htm">Fill</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-11.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/psalms/119-29.htm">Graciously</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-24.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-16.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-33.htm">Speaketh</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-11.htm">Speaks</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-11.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-19.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-3.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-22.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/isaiah/66-3.htm">Abominations</a> <a href="/jonah/3-5.htm">Belief</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-9.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/songs/1-16.htm">Charming</a> <a href="/jeremiah/2-13.htm">Evils</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-29.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-19.htm">Fill</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-8.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/hosea/14-2.htm">Graciously</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-9.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-2.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/isaiah/9-17.htm">Speaketh</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-20.htm">Speaks</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-3.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-25.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-14.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-23.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 26</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-1.htm">observations about fools</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-13.htm">about sluggards</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-17.htm">and about contentious busybodies</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/26.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/26.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>When he speaks graciously</b><br>This phrase warns against being deceived by smooth or flattering speech. In biblical times, eloquence was often associated with wisdom and authority, yet the Bible frequently cautions against those who use persuasive words to manipulate or deceive (<a href="/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18</a>). The serpent in <a href="/genesis/3.htm">Genesis 3:1-5</a> is an early example of using gracious words to lead astray. The cultural context of ancient Israel valued honesty and integrity, and this proverb serves as a reminder to discern the true intentions behind words.<p><b>do not believe him</b><br>This directive emphasizes the need for discernment and skepticism when dealing with individuals who may have ulterior motives. The Bible consistently advises believers to test the spirits (1 <a href="/john/4.htm">John 4:1</a>) and to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (<a href="/matthew/10-16.htm">Matthew 10:16</a>). Historically, Israel faced many false prophets and leaders who led them away from God, underscoring the importance of not taking words at face value.<p><b>for seven abominations fill his heart</b><br>The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, suggesting that the deceitful person's heart is fully corrupt. <a href="/proverbs/6-16.htm">Proverbs 6:16-19</a> lists seven things the Lord detests, which may parallel the abominations mentioned here. This phrase highlights the depth of wickedness that can reside within a person, contrasting with the purity and righteousness expected of God's people. The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of one's being and intentions, and this proverb warns that despite outward appearances, the inner reality can be entirely different.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_deceptive_speaker.htm">The Deceptive Speaker</a></b><br>This refers to an individual who speaks with charm and grace but harbors malicious intent. The verse warns against trusting such a person.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_heart.htm">The Heart</a></b><br>In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of one's inner life, including emotions, thoughts, and intentions. Here, it is described as being filled with "seven abominations," indicating complete moral corruption.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_audience.htm">The Audience</a></b><br>The implied audience is the listener or observer who must discern the true intentions behind the deceptive speaker's words.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/d/discernment_is_essential.htm">Discernment is Essential</a></b><br>Believers must cultivate spiritual discernment to recognize when someone is being deceitful, even if their words are gracious.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guard_your_heart.htm">Guard Your Heart</a></b><br>Just as we are warned about the deceitful heart of others, we must also guard our own hearts against harboring ill intentions.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seek_wisdom_from_god.htm">Seek Wisdom from God</a></b><br>Pray for wisdom and understanding to see beyond outward appearances and to judge rightly.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/b/be_aware_of_flattery.htm">Be Aware of Flattery</a></b><br>Flattery can be a tool of manipulation. Be cautious of those who excessively flatter, as it may conceal ulterior motives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reflect_christ_in_speech.htm">Reflect Christ in Speech</a></b><br>As followers of Christ, our speech should be genuine and reflect the truth and love of God, avoiding deceit and manipulation.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_26.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 26</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_a_proverbs_31_virtuous_woman.htm">What defines a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_cef.htm">What does the Bible say about passive-aggressiveness?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_proverbs_25_3_a_valid_comparison.htm">Proverbs 25:3 - Is it historically or scientifically valid to compare a king's heart to the unfathomable heights of the heavens?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_a_hen_gather_her_chicks.htm">What does 'An honest answer is a kiss' mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/26.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(25) <span class= "bld">Seven abominations.--</span>See above on <a href="/proverbs/26-16.htm" title="The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.">Proverbs 26:16</a>, and comp. "seven spirits" (<a href="/matthew/12-45.htm" title="Then goes he, and takes with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also to this wicked generation.">Matthew 12:45</a>) and "seven devils" (<a href="/mark/16-9.htm" title="Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.">Mark 16:9</a>).<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/26.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 25.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">When he speaketh fair, believe him not.</span> When he lowers his voice to a winning, agreeable tone, put no trust in him. Septuagint, "If thine enemy entreat thee with a loud voice, be not persuaded." <span class="cmt_word">For there are seven abominations in his heart.</span> His heart is filled with a host of evil thoughts (see on ver. 16), as if seven devils had entered in and dwelt there (<a href="/matthew/12-45.htm">Matthew 12:45</a>; <a href="/mark/16-9.htm">Mark 16:9</a>). Ecclus. 12:10, etc. "Never trust thine enemy; for like as iron rusteth, so is his wickedness. Though he humble himself, and go crouching, yet take good heed and beware of him." Plato's verdict concerning hypocrisy is often quoted, <span class="greek">Ἐσχάτη ἀδικία δοκεῖν δίκαιον εϊναι μὴ ὄντα</span> "It is the very worst form of injustice to appear to be just without being so in reality" ('De Rep.,' 2, p. 361, A). With this Cicero agrees ('De Offic.,' 1:13), "Totius injustitiae nulla capitalior est quam eorum, qui tum cum maxime fallunt id agunt ut viri boni esse videantur." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/26-25.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</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּֽי־</span> <span class="translit">(kî-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">he speaks</span><br /><span class="heb">ק֭וֹלוֹ</span> <span class="translit">(qō·w·lōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6963.htm">Strong's 6963: </a> </span><span class="str2">A voice, sound</span><br /><br /><span class="word">graciously,</span><br /><span class="heb">יְחַנֵּ֣ן</span> <span class="translit">(yə·ḥan·nên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2603.htm">Strong's 2603: </a> </span><span class="str2">To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore</span><br /><br /><span class="word">do not</span><br /><span class="heb">אַל־</span> <span class="translit">(’al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not</span><br /><br /><span class="word">believe him,</span><br /><span class="heb">תַּֽאֲמֶן־</span> <span class="translit">(ta·’ă·men-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Imperfect Jussive - second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_539.htm">Strong's 539: </a> </span><span class="str2">To confirm, support</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּ֤י</span> <span class="translit">(kî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">seven</span><br /><span class="heb">שֶׁ֖בַע</span> <span class="translit">(še·ḇa‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Number - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7651.htm">Strong's 7651: </a> </span><span class="str2">Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite number</span><br /><br /><span class="word">abominations</span><br /><span class="heb">תּוֹעֵב֣וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(tō·w·‘ê·ḇō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8441.htm">Strong's 8441: </a> </span><span class="str2">Something disgusting, an abhorrence, idolatry, an idol</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[fill] his heart.</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּלִבּֽוֹ׃</span> <span class="translit">(bə·lib·bōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3820.htm">Strong's 3820: </a> </span><span class="str2">The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/26-25.htm">Proverbs 26:25 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/26-25.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 26:25 When his speech is charming don't believe (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/26-24.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 26:24"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 26:24" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/26-26.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 26:26"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 26:26" /></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>