King James Version
Proverbs 21:23 in the King James Version says “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.”
Proverbs 21:23 · KJV
He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.
A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath. in proud: Heb. in the wrath of pride
The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Whoso keepeth”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
“his mouth”
H6310the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
“and his 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,
“Whoso keepeth”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
“his soul”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
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 21:23 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 21:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge