Overview
The Bible addresses words across 22 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Psalms. Closely related themes include Tongue, Slander, Fool and Judgment. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
Key Bible verses about words
Old Testament
Psalms
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. strength: Heb. rock
The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.
Proverbs
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it! due: Heb. his season
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. talebearer: or, whisperer as wounds: or, like as when men are wounded most: Heb. chambers
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. fitly: Heb. spoken upon his wheels
Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him. words: or, matters?
Ecclesiastes
For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice is known by multitude of words.
The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself. gracious: Heb. grace
The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness: and the end of his talk is mischievous madness. his talk: Heb. his mouth
A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him? is full: Heb. multiplieth words
New Testament
Matthew
1 Corinthians
So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. easy: Gr. significant
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
People in the Bible and words
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying words for yourself
- Begin with Job 38:2, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Psalms each treat the theme.
- Consider the lives of Jesus and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Tongue, Slander, Fool and Judgment.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about words?
The Bible addresses words across 22 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Psalms. Closely related themes include Tongue, Slander, Fool and Judgment. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Jesus.
How many Bible verses are about words?
The Bible references words in 22 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention words?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Job 38:2: “Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?”
Which people in the Bible are associated with words?
Jesus.
Preach & teach
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