Proverbs 26:22

22 The words of a talebearer are as dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

Proverbs 26:22 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 26:22

The words of a talebearer [are] as wounds, and they go down
into the innermost parts of the belly.
] These expressions are the same with those in ( Proverbs 18:8 ) ; and are here repeated, as being found along with others by the men of Hezekiah, ( Proverbs 25:1 ) ; as some others likewise are; and also because of the importance of them; and to impress the minds of men with a sense of the evil of such a practice, that they may shun it, and avoid those that are given to it. (See Gill on Proverbs 18:8).

Proverbs 26:22 In-Context

20 Where no wood is, the fire goeth out; and where there is no talebearer, the contention ceaseth.

21 [As] coals for hot coals, and wood for fire, so is a contentious man to inflame strife.

22 The words of a talebearer are as dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

23 Ardent lips, and a wicked heart, are [as] an earthen vessel overlaid with silver dross.

24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, but he layeth up deceit within him:

Footnotes

• [a]. See ch. 18.8.