King James Version
Proverbs 20:19 in the King James Version says “He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips. flat...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips. flattereth: or, enticeth”
Proverbs 20:19 · KJV
Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. deceit: Heb. lying, or, falsehood
Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.
He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips. flattereth: or, enticeth
Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness. lamp: or, candle
An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“revealeth”
H1540to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
“secrets”
H5475a session, i.e., company of persons (in close deliberation); by implication, intimacy, consultation, a secret
“He that goeth about”
H1980to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
“not with him that flattereth”
H6601to open, i.e., be (causatively, make) roomy; usually figuratively (in a mental or moral sense) to be (causatively, make) simple or (in a sinister way)
“with his lips”
H8193the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“therefore meddle”
H6148to braid, i.e., intermix; technically, to traffic (as if by barter); also or give to be security (as a kind of exchange)
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 20:19 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 20:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge