KJV ORIGINAL
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
The words of a gossiper cut like wounds, and they sink deep into a person's heart and soul.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is warning that gossip and spreading rumors hurts people deeply, wounding them in ways that go far beneath the surface.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from ancient Israel's wisdom literature, where maintaining community harmony was essential for survival. In a close-knit society, gossip and tale-bearing could destroy relationships, reputations, and even lead to violence or social exile. The Hebrew culture placed great emphasis on the power of words to either build up or tear down.
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