KJV ORIGINAL
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
A healthy tongue that speaks good words is like a tree of life, but a twisted tongue that speaks wrongly breaks the spirit.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is saying that our words have incredible power - they can either bring life and healing to others or cause deep spiritual harm.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb was written during Israel's golden age when King Solomon was known for his wisdom. In ancient Hebrew culture, the 'tree of life' referenced the Garden of Eden and represented flourishing, healing, and God's blessing. The concept of words having spiritual power was deeply understood in Hebrew thought, where speech was seen as creative force that could build up or tear down communities.
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