King James Version
Proverbs 17:4 in the King James Version says “A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.”
Proverbs 17:4 · KJV
A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.
A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.
Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished. unpunished: Heb. held innocent
Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“A wicked doer”
H7489properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“lips”
H8193the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
“to false”
H205strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
“giveth ear”
H238to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“tongue”
H3956the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
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.
Proverbs 17:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 17:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge