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Proverbs 17:4

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

A person who does evil pays attention to lies and false words; and a liar listens eagerly to harmful, destructive talk.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse shows that evil people and liars are drawn to each other—they seek out and listen to the same kind of dishonest, harmful speech they themselves produce.

📚 Historical Context

This proverb was written during Solomon's reign when Israel was establishing wisdom literature to guide moral behavior. In ancient Hebrew culture, words held tremendous power and were seen as either building up or tearing down communities. The emphasis on truthful speech versus lies was crucial for maintaining justice and social harmony in a society where oral communication was primary.

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