Proverbs 10:19 “When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips…”

Proverbs 10:19

When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.

Berean Standard Bible

Other translations

King James Version

In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

World English Bible

In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely.

American Standard Version

In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression; But he that refraineth his lips doeth wisely.

Geneva Bible 1599

In many wordes there cannot want iniquitie: but he that refrayneth his lippes, is wise.

Darby Translation

In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression; but he that restraineth his lips doeth wisely.

Young's Literal Translation

In the abundance of words transgression ceaseth not, And whoso is restraining his lips [is] wise.

Bible in Basic English

Where there is much talk there will be no end to sin, but he who keeps his mouth shut does wisely.

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Cross references

“the multitude”

James 3:2 Ecclesiastes 5:3 Ecclesiastes 10:13 Ecclesiastes 10:14

James 3:2 · BSB

We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.

Ecclesiastes 5:3 · BSB

As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words.

Ecclesiastes 10:13 · BSB

The beginning of his talk is folly, and the end of his speech is evil madness.

Ecclesiastes 10:14 · BSB

Yet the fool multiplies words. No one knows what is coming, and who can tell him what will come after him?

“but”

James 1:19 Psalm 39:1 Proverbs 17:27 Proverbs 17:28

James 1:19 · BSB

My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,

Psalm 39:1 · BSB

I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.”

Proverbs 17:27 · BSB

A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit.

Proverbs 17:28 · BSB

Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.

Cross references adapted from OpenBible.info (CC BY 4.0) and the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

In context

18The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.

20The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked has little worth.

Read Proverbs 10