King James Version

What Does Proverbs 26:28 Mean?

Proverbs 26:28 in the King James Version says “A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.”

Proverbs 26:28 · KJV

Context

26

Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation. by: or, in secret

27

Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

28

A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Read Proverbs 26 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth works ruin. The Hebrew 'lashon sheqer' (lying tongue) and 'peh chalaq' (smooth/flattering mouth) describes comprehensive speech corruption. Lies crush victims and reveal hater's heart. Flattery ruins by deceiving and manipulating. Both lying and flattering destroy - one through obvious attack, other through subtle manipulation. This warns: destructive speech takes multiple forms. Guard against both obvious lies and subtle flattery.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Proverbs extensively condemns both lying and flattery. Psalm 12:2-3 says: 'They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things.' Jesus condemned Pharisees for hypocrisy - saying one thing, meaning another. James 1:26 teaches: 'If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.'

Reflection Questions

  1. What lying or flattering speech have you used to crush or manipulate others?
  2. How can you recognize both obvious lies and subtle flattery directed at you?
  3. What commitment to truthful, sincere speech would eliminate both lying and flattering from your communication?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
לְֽשׁוֹן1 of 8

“tongue”

H3956

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

שֶׁ֭קֶר2 of 8

“A lying”

H8267

an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

יִשְׂנָ֣א3 of 8

“hateth”

H8130

to hate (personally)

דַכָּ֑יו4 of 8

“those that are afflicted”

H1790

crushed, i.e., (figuratively) injured

וּפֶ֥ה5 of 8

“mouth”

H6310

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

חָ֝לָ֗ק6 of 8

“by it and a flattering”

H2509

smooth (especially of tongue)

יַעֲשֶׂ֥ה7 of 8

“worketh”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מִדְחֶֽה׃8 of 8

“ruin”

H4072

overthrow

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 26:28 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 26:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 8:44-49Luke 20:20-21Proverbs 7:21-23Proverbs 6:24John 10:32-33Proverbs 7:5

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 26 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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