Proverbs 10:18 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 10:18 mean?

Proverbs 10:18 says that someone who hides hatred by pretending with false words, or someone who spreads harmful stories about others, is acting foolishly. The verse warns that both covering up hate with lies and openly slandering others are foolish behaviors.

In this proverb, the writer (traditionally Solomon) is speaking to anyone seeking wisdom about how to live well. The verse points out two wrong ways of dealing with hatred: hiding it behind dishonest words or expressing it through slander. Both are called foolish, showing that neither silent resentment nor open malice is wise.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 10:18

• "hideth" (כָּסָה, kasah): This word means to cover or conceal. Here, it describes someone who tries to hide their hatred instead of dealing with it honestly, which the proverb criticizes.
• "lying" (שֶׁקֶר, sheqer): This word refers to falsehood or deception. The verse connects lying lips with hidden hatred, showing that dishonesty is not just about words but also about hiding true feelings.
• "slander" (דִּבָּה, dibbah): This word means spreading damaging or false reports. The proverb pairs slander with hidden hatred, making clear that both silent and spoken harm are foolish.
• "fool" (כְּסִיל, kesil): This word often means someone who rejects wisdom or acts without understanding. Calling such a person a fool emphasizes that these actions are not just wrong but also senseless.

Why Proverbs 10:18 matters

• Proverbs 10:18 clarifies that both silent hatred and open slander are harmful, not just one or the other. This helps readers see that wisdom is not just about what is said, but also about what is hidden.
• The verse warns against thinking that hiding hatred is harmless. It shows that pretending with "lying lips" is just as foolish as openly attacking someone with words.
• In the wider context of Proverbs 10, which contrasts wise and foolish behavior, this verse highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships.