Old Testament
Proverbs 13:2
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A person shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth, but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.
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A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.
What Proverbs 13:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the importance of our words and their consequences. The 'fruit of his mouth' refers to the positive outcomes that come from speaking wisely and kindly. When a person uses their words to uplift and encourage, they will experience good things in life. In contrast, the 'soul of the transgressors' suggests that those who speak deceitfully or harmfully will face negative consequences, described as 'eating violence.' This indicates that their harmful words lead to destructive outcomes, both for themselves and others. Essentially, the verse teaches that our speech can either bring about good or lead to harm, emphasizing the need for careful and thoughtful communication.
How to apply Proverbs 13:2 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on speaking positively and constructively in your daily interactions. Choose words that encourage and build others up, rather than tearing them down. Reflect on how your speech affects your relationships and strive to communicate with kindness and integrity.
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At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 13:2 mean?
Proverbs 13:2 means that the words we speak can lead to positive or negative outcomes. Speaking wisely and kindly brings good results, while harmful speech leads to destructive consequences.
What is the meaning of 'fruit of his mouth' in Proverbs 13:2?
The 'fruit of his mouth' refers to the positive results that come from speaking wisely and encouragingly. It suggests that our words can yield good experiences and outcomes in life.
What does 'soul of the transgressors shall eat violence' mean?
This phrase indicates that those who speak deceitfully or harmfully will face negative consequences. Their harmful words lead to destructive outcomes for themselves and others.
How can I apply Proverbs 13:2 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 13:2, focus on using positive and constructive language in your daily conversations. Aim to uplift others with your words and be mindful of how your speech impacts your relationships.
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