Proverbs 26:28

A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Proverbs 26:28 (KJV)

Context

This proverb belongs to a collection of wise sayings in Proverbs, many of them attributed to King Solomon. The surrounding verses warn against deceit, concealed hatred, and the harm that comes from plotting evil. Verse 28 closes this section by exposing two destructive kinds of speech: the lying tongue and the flattering mouth.

Meaning

The first clause says that a lying tongue hates those it afflicts. The Hebrew word for “afflicted” means crushed or hurt. Lies are not neutral; they wound real people. The liar’s hatred is both the reason for his lies and the result of them. He hates those he harms, and his false words crush them. This hatred is not accidental. It is the inner motive behind every deceptive word.

The second clause warns that a flattering mouth works ruin. Flattery sounds pleasant and complimentary, but it is equally destructive. It may seem harmless, yet it leads to ruin for both the speaker and the hearer. The ruin is not always immediate, but it is certain. Both lying and flattery oppose truth and integrity. They come from a heart that does not love others as God commands.

Biblical connections

Proverbs 6:16-19 lists a lying tongue among the seven things the Lord hates. This shows that God abhors deceit and its harmful effects. The New Testament also connects truthful speech with love. Ephesians 4:15 calls believers to speak the truth in love, using words that build up rather than destroy. Jesus Himself is called the truth in John 14:6, so our speech should reflect His character.

Application

This verse calls us to examine our own speech. We must reject outright lies and also subtle flattery, because both come from a heart that does not truly love others. Instead, we should speak honestly and kindly, seeking the good of the person we address. When we are tempted to use words to harm or manipulate, we can remember that God sees the heart and will bring ruin upon those who use speech to hurt others. The surrounding context of retribution reminds us that evil speech often returns upon the speaker.

Reflection

Consider your own words this week. Do they reflect hatred or love? Do they build up or tear down? Ask God to purify your speech so that your tongue becomes an instrument of truth and grace, not of affliction or ruin. Let honesty and sincerity mark every conversation, knowing that God honors those who speak the truth in love.