17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
17 Whoever speaks
18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
17 Truthful witness by a good person clears the air, but liars lay down a smoke screen of deceit.
18 Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise.
17 He who speaks truth declares righteousness, But a false witness, deceit.
18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health.
17 An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies.
18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 12:17-18
Commentary on Proverbs 12:17
(Read Proverbs 12:17)
It is good for all to dread and detest the sin of lying, and to be governed by honesty.
Commentary on Proverbs 12:18
(Read Proverbs 12:18)
Whisperings and evil surmises, like a sword, separate those that have been dear to each other. The tongue of the wise is health, making all whole.