Ecclesiastes 10:12 - The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but a fool is swallowed by his own lips.
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What does "Ecclesiastes 10:12" mean?
This verse from Ecclesiastes 10:12 contrasts the effect of a wise person's words with the consequences of a fool's speech. Let's break it down:
"The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious...": This means that the speech of a wise person is pleasant, kind, and beneficial. Their words are likely to be thoughtful, constructive, and well-received by others. "Gracious" implies they speak with wisdom, tact, and perhaps even offer comfort or encouragement.
"...but a fool is swallowed by his own lips.": This part is more figurative. It suggests that a fool's words get them into trouble, leading to negative consequences. Here's how that "swallowing" might occur:
Self-Destruction: Fools often speak without thinking, revealing their ignorance or foolishness. This can damage their reputation, credibility, and relationships.
Entrapment: Their words might create problems they cannot escape. They might make promises they can't keep, spread gossip that backfires, or make statements that incriminate them.
Overwhelmed by Negativity: Constant foolish talk can lead to a cycle of negativity and problems that ultimately overwhelm the fool. Their own words contribute to their downfall.
In essence, the verse is saying:
Wisdom is demonstrated through thoughtful and beneficial speech.
Foolishness is revealed through careless and destructive speech, which ultimately harms the fool.
The verse is a caution about the power of words. It highlights the importance of thinking before speaking and using language wisely. A wise person's words build up, while a fool's words tear down, starting with themselves.
Ecclesiastes 10:12 - The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but a fool is swallowed by his own lips.
What does "Ecclesiastes 10:12" mean?
This verse from Ecclesiastes 10:12 contrasts the effect of a wise person's words with the consequences of a fool's speech. Let's break it down:
"The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious...": This means that the speech of a wise person is pleasant, kind, and beneficial. Their words are likely to be thoughtful, constructive, and well-received by others. "Gracious" implies they speak with wisdom, tact, and perhaps even offer comfort or encouragement.
"...but a fool is swallowed by his own lips.": This part is more figurative. It suggests that a fool's words get them into trouble, leading to negative consequences. Here's how that "swallowing" might occur:
Self-Destruction: Fools often speak without thinking, revealing their ignorance or foolishness. This can damage their reputation, credibility, and relationships.
Entrapment: Their words might create problems they cannot escape. They might make promises they can't keep, spread gossip that backfires, or make statements that incriminate them.
Overwhelmed by Negativity: Constant foolish talk can lead to a cycle of negativity and problems that ultimately overwhelm the fool. Their own words contribute to their downfall.
In essence, the verse is saying:
Wisdom is demonstrated through thoughtful and beneficial speech.
Foolishness is revealed through careless and destructive speech, which ultimately harms the fool.
The verse is a caution about the power of words. It highlights the importance of thinking before speaking and using language wisely. A wise person's words build up, while a fool's words tear down, starting with themselves.