Ecclesiastes 10:12 Meaning and Explanation
“The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Wise speech wins favor and grace, while the fool's own words become a trap that destroys him.
What Does Ecclesiastes 10:12 Mean?
The Preacher contrasts two kinds of speech. The wise person's words are gracious, marked by kindness and skill that draw favor. The fool's lips, by contrast, swallow him up, his own talk turning against him like a pit he dug himself.
Words carry immense power for good or ruin. Gracious speech blesses both speaker and hearer, while reckless words bring self-inflicted harm. Scripture treasures the tongue that builds up, and points us to the Word made flesh, whose every saying was full of grace and truth, the perfect pattern for our own speech.
Ecclesiastes 10:12 in the Original Language
chen (חֵן), 'gracious' -- favor, charm, the winsome grace that draws goodwill.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ecclesiastes 10:12
What does Ecclesiastes 10:12 mean?
Wise speech wins favor and grace, while the fool's own words become a trap that destroys him.