Proverbs 15:23

Modern

A man takes joy in a fitting reply—and how good is a timely word!

Traditional

A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

Literal

Joy is unto a man in the answer of his mouth, and a word in its season, how good it is!

Latin

Lætatur homo in sententia oris sui, et sermo opportunus est optimus.

Hebrew

English

A man takes joy in a fitting reply—and how good is a timely word!

Theme notes and profiles

Isaiah 50:4
The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of discipleship, to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning; He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple.
Ephesians 4:29
Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.
Proverbs 25:11–12
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Proverbs 12:14
By fruitful speech a man is filled with good things, and the work of his hands returns to him.
Proverbs 16:13
Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he who speaks honestly is beloved.
Proverbs 24:26
An honest answer given is like a kiss on the lips.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven:
1 Samuel 25:32–33
Then David said to Abigail, “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who sent you to meet me this day!