Old Testament
Proverbs 15:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The heart of the righteous studies to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.
Compare translations
The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.
What Proverbs 15:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse contrasts the behavior of the righteous and the wicked when it comes to communication. The righteous person takes time to think carefully before responding, indicating a thoughtful and considerate approach to conversation. They study their words to ensure they are wise and appropriate. In contrast, the wicked person speaks without thinking, allowing harmful and evil words to flow freely. This highlights the importance of being mindful about what we say and the impact our words can have on others. The verse encourages us to reflect on our intentions and the consequences of our speech, promoting a more deliberate and kind way of communicating.
How to apply Proverbs 15:28 to your life
To apply this verse, take a moment to pause and think before you speak, especially in heated situations. Consider the impact of your words on others and strive to respond with kindness and wisdom. This practice can lead to healthier relationships and more constructive conversations.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 15:28
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 15:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 15:28 mean?
Proverbs 15:28 contrasts the communication styles of the righteous and the wicked. It means that a righteous person thinks carefully before speaking, while a wicked person speaks thoughtlessly and harms others with their words.
What is the meaning of 'the heart of the righteous studies to answer' in Proverbs 15:28?
This phrase means that a righteous person takes time to reflect and consider their words before responding. It emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication and being mindful of how our words affect others.
How can I apply Proverbs 15:28 in my daily life?
To apply this verse, practice pausing before you speak, especially in emotional situations. Think about the impact of your words and aim to respond with kindness and wisdom.
What does 'the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things' mean in Proverbs 15:28?
This part of the verse means that a wicked person speaks harmful and negative words without considering the consequences. It serves as a warning about the dangers of careless speech.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.