Proverbs 10:20 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 10:20 mean?

Proverbs 10:20 says that the words spoken by a just or righteous person are valuable and precious, like the finest silver, while the inner life or motives of a wicked person are worth very little. The verse draws a sharp contrast between the lasting worth of good speech and the emptiness found in evil hearts.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, addressed to anyone seeking wisdom for daily life. The verse uses vivid imagery to show how much more valuable honest, upright speech is compared to the hidden thoughts or intentions of those who do wrong. It highlights the importance of character as revealed through words and attitudes.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 10:20

• "Tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon): This word refers to speech or the things a person says. The focus is on the power and influence of spoken words.
• "Just" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq): This term means someone who is upright, fair, or righteous. The verse is pointing to the moral quality of the speaker.
• "Choice" (בָּחוּר, bachur): This word means "chosen" or "select," emphasizing that the silver is not just any silver, but the best kind—highlighting the exceptional value of just speech.
• "Silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph): Silver was a precious metal in ancient times, often used as a standard of value. Comparing words to silver stresses their worth.
• "Heart" (לֵב, lev): In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of thought, will, and emotion—not just feelings, but the whole inner life.
• "Wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha): This word means someone morally wrong or guilty, emphasizing the contrast with the just person.
• "Worth" (מְעַט, me'at): This word means "little" or "insignificant," showing that the wicked person's inner life amounts to almost nothing.

Why Proverbs 10:20 matters

• Proverbs 10:20 clears up the idea that outward speech and inner character are separate; the verse links the value of words to the speaker’s moral standing.
• The proverb emphasizes that not all speech is equal—words from a just person carry real value, while the inner life of the wicked is empty, even if it is hidden from view.
• This verse fits into the wider passage’s theme of contrasting the righteous and the wicked, helping readers see the practical difference in how each one’s life and words affect others.