Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 18:4 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is like a flowing brook. "
Proverbs 18:4
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
2 A fool has no delight in understanding, but only in revealing his own opinion.
3 When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and with shame comes disgrace.
4 The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is like a flowing brook.
5 To be partial to the faces of the wicked is not good, nor to deprive the innocent of justice.
6 A fool’s lips come into strife, and his mouth invites beatings.
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The comparisons here seem to be beautifully arranged. The spring of wisdom is like deep waters. A thoughtful, wise person carries within himself a rich store of useful knowledge, so he can speak what is fitting and helpful in many different situations. Like deep waters, this wisdom makes little noise, but it never runs dry.
The words from such a person’s mouth are like a flowing brook. What he has reason to say comes out naturally, easily, and with a free flow. His speech is clear and fresh, and it brings cleansing and refreshment. From the deep waters within him, there comes whatever is needed to water the people around him, just as brooks water the low ground.
From This Chapter
Proverbs 18:1
"A man who isolates himself pursues selfishness, and defies all sound judgment."
Proverbs 18:2
"A fool has no delight in understanding, but only in revealing his own opinion."
Proverbs 18:3
"When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and with shame comes disgrace."
Proverbs 18:5
"To be partial to the faces of the wicked is not good, nor to deprive the innocent of justice."
Proverbs 18:6
"A fool’s lips come into strife, and his mouth invites beatings."
Proverbs 18:7
"A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are a snare to his soul."
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