King James Version

What Does Proverbs 11:13 Mean?

Proverbs 11:13 in the King James Version says “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. A talebearer: Heb. He that wa...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. A talebearer: Heb. He that walketh, being a talebearer”

Proverbs 11:13 · KJV

Holy Spirit

Context

11

By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

12

He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. void: Heb. destitute of heart

13

A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. A talebearer: Heb. He that walketh, being a talebearer

14

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

15

He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure. smart: Heb. be sore broken suretiship: Heb. those that strike hands

Read Proverbs 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The talebearer violates trust and destroys community bonds through gossip. Faithful spirit conceals matters, demonstrating discretion and love that covers offenses (1 Peter 4:8). This reflects the ninth commandment's protection of reputation and the positive duty to guard others' honor.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

In small ancient communities, talebearing could destroy reputations and relationships permanently. The faithful person's restraint preserved social cohesion essential for covenant community life.

Reflection Questions

  1. How carefully do you guard confidences shared with you?
  2. When is speaking about others' faults necessary versus gossip?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
הוֹלֵ֣ךְ1 of 8

“A talebearer”

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

רָ֭כִיל2 of 8
H7400

a scandal-monger (as travelling about)

מְגַלֶּה3 of 8

“revealeth”

H1540

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

סּ֑וֹד4 of 8

“secrets”

H5475

a session, i.e., company of persons (in close deliberation); by implication, intimacy, consultation, a secret

וְנֶאֱמַן5 of 8

“but he that is of a faithful”

H539

properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen

ר֝֗וּחַ6 of 8

“spirit”

H7307

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

מְכַסֶּ֥ה7 of 8

“concealeth”

H3680

properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

דָבָֽר׃8 of 8

“the matter”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 11:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 11:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 20:19Leviticus 19:16Proverbs 25:91 Timothy 5:13Proverbs 26:20-22Joshua 2:14

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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