Proverbs 24:26 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Whoever gives an honest answer kisses the lips.

NIV: An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.

NASB: One who gives a right answer Kisses the lips.

CSB: He who gives an honest answer gives a kiss on the lips.

NLT: An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship.

KJV: Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.

NKJV: He who gives a right answer kisses the lips.

The phrasing of this verse includes a few subtleties not easily translated into other languages. This figure of speech is grounded in the idea of a kiss being an expression of friendship and affection. The Hebrew words in this statement imply something sincere, "straight," and truthful. The idea that wise, honest, helpful answers are blessings to the one who hears them is mentioned in other proverbs, as well (Proverbs 12:17, 25; 15:23; 16:13).

This corresponds to the idea of "speaking the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15). It is possible to be truthful and yet not be loving (Proverbs 15:1; 1 Peter 3:15). Yet it is impossible to be genuinely loving unless one is truthful. There is no love expressed in comforting lies or reassurances. Ephesians 4:25 says, "Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." Verse 29 further expounds, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."

Speaking lies, even to spare an argument or protect another person's feelings, shows a lack of respect and a lack of love for that person. Of course, not all people willingly accept wisdom (Proverbs 9:7; 15:12; 29:9). Therefore, discretion is important (Proverbs 26:4–5; Matthew 7:6).

Proverbs 24:23–34 comes after a list of thirty wise teachings; these were recorded by Solomon while not necessarily being his own ideas. The wisdom which concludes this chapter is cited with less clarity, other than being attributed to wise speakers. These address discrimination, rebuke of the wicked, honesty, wise planning, revenge, and the consequences of laziness.

Solomon continues to list wise sayings (Proverbs 22:17–21), rounding out his promised list of thirty teachings. These endorse integrity, accepting good advice, reputation, and ethical actions. The lessons also stress godly attitudes about vengeance, bitterness, and companionship. After verse 23 come additional proverbs. These may or may not have been Solomon's own words, but at least some appear to be his thoughts. Key points in these verses are the need for impartiality in judgment, godly reputation, and work ethic.

This chapter continues thirty sayings of wise people (Proverbs 22:17–21), as collected and endorsed by Solomon. The remainder of the passage are additional wise statements, which are not as clearly attributed. Some of the lessons are framed as warnings, followed by reasons. The lessons contained here are more detailed than most of the proverbs in this book.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.