Proverbs 16:23

23 They make a lot of sense, these wise folks; whenever they speak, their reputation increases.

Proverbs 16:23 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:23

The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth
That is, a man that is wise in heart, as in ( Proverbs 16:21 ) ; his heart will teach his mouth what to say, when to say it, and before whom; it will prompt him to matter, that he shall not be at a loss what to say, nor how to say; it will furnish him with words and things; out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh, ( Matthew 12:34 ) ; and addeth learning to his lips:
so that he does not deliver out mere words, but solid learning along with them, instructive to himself and others. The Targum is,

``and by his lips he addeth doctrine;''

or increases knowledge.

Proverbs 16:23 In-Context

21 A wise person gets known for insight; gracious words add to one's reputation.

22 True intelligence is a spring of fresh water, while fools sweat it out the hard way.

23 They make a lot of sense, these wise folks; whenever they speak, their reputation increases.

24 Gracious speech is like clover honey - good taste to the soul, quick energy for the body.

25 There's a way that looks harmless enough; look again - it leads straight to hell.