Bible Strands
Proverbs 24:26
An honest answer given is like a kiss on the lips.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The wise author addresses Israelite citizens within a collection of practical instructions, positioning this maxim between advice on justly confronting wrongdoing and the priority of completing daily labor before long-term projects.
The words — מֵ֝שִׁ֗יב (me.Shiv) means [one who] brings back or returns, and נְכֹחִֽים (ne.kho.Chim) means right or upright.
The thread — The motif of a fitting reply appears in Proverbs 15:23 and Proverbs 25:11, while the broader theme of discerning God-given wisdom in judgment and speech runs through Genesis 41:38.
Why it lands — It requires a reader to give direct, truthful responses in conversation rather than evasion or flattery, treating honest communication as a concrete sign of respect.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 15:23 A man takes joy in a fitting reply—and how good is a timely word!
- Genesis 41:38 So Pharaoh asked them, “Can we find anyone like this man, in whom the Spirit of God abides?”
- Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
- Job 6:25 How painful are honest words! But what does your argument prove?
- Proverbs 16:1 The plans of the heart belong to man, but the reply of the tongue is from the LORD.
- Daniel 2:46 At this, King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face, paid homage to Daniel, and ordered that an offering and incense be presented to him.
- Mark 12:17 Then Jesus told them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” And they marveled at Him.
- Mark 12:32 “Right, Teacher,” the scribe replied. “You have stated correctly that God is One and there is no other but Him,