Proverbs 13:2 - By the fruit of his lips, a man enjoys good things; but the unfaithful crave violence.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 13:2

What does "Proverbs 13:2" mean?


Proverbs 13:2 is about the power of speech and its consequences. It contrasts the positive outcomes that come from wise and truthful words with the destructive desires of the unfaithful. Let's break it down:

"By the fruit of his lips, a man enjoys good things...": This part highlights the positive consequences of thoughtful and truthful speech. "Fruit of his lips" refers to the words a person speaks. "Good things" can encompass a range of benefits, such as:
Positive relationships: Honest and kind words foster trust and goodwill, leading to stronger and more fulfilling relationships.
Success and prosperity: Wise communication can help someone achieve their goals in their career, business, or other endeavors. Clear, persuasive, and honest communication are valuable assets.
A good reputation: Speaking with integrity builds a positive reputation, which can open doors and create opportunities.
Peace of mind: Speaking truthfully and constructively allows a person to live without the burden of deception or manipulation.

"...but the unfaithful crave violence.": This contrasts the previous idea by showing the negative outcomes for those who are unfaithful or deceitful. "Unfaithful" refers to those who are unreliable, dishonest, or treacherous. "Crave violence" doesn't necessarily mean physical violence in every case, but rather:
A destructive nature: It suggests that unfaithful people have a desire for conflict, harm, or disruption. This may manifest in hurtful words, deceitful actions, or a general tendency to create problems.
A desire for control through force: The unfaithful may resort to manipulative or aggressive tactics to get their way because they lack the ability to build trust and cooperation through honesty.
Inner turmoil: The "violence" they crave could be a reflection of their own inner turmoil and dissatisfaction. They may project their negative feelings onto others.

In essence, the verse conveys that:

Speaking truthfully and wisely leads to positive outcomes and benefits.
Dishonesty and treachery lead to destructive desires and consequences.

The verse is a reminder of the importance of careful and truthful communication. Our words have power, and they can either build up or tear down, both ourselves and others.