King James Version
Proverbs 18:4 in the King James Version says “The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.”
Proverbs 18:4 · KJV
A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.
When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.
The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.
It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.
A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“The words”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
“mouth”
H6310the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
“of a man's”
H376a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
“brook”
H5158a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)
“as a flowing”
H5042to gush forth; figuratively, to utter (good or bad words); specifically, to emit (a foul odor)
“and the wellspring”
H4726properly, something dug, i.e., a (general) source (of water, even when naturally flowing; also of tears, blood (by euphemism, of the female pudenda);
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 18:4 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 18:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge