Proverbs 23:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A parent's innermost being is moved to joy when the child speaks wisely.
The Context of Proverbs 23:16
Intimate description of parental joy in the child's wise speech.
What Does Proverbs 23:16 Mean?
The reins represent the deepest inner life—the seat of emotions and desires. When a child speaks rightly, the parent's entire being resonates with satisfaction and hope. This is a profound expression of how deeply parental love is invested in the child's moral and spiritual development.
Right speech reflects right thinking and a settled character. When a child speaks wisdom, the parent knows the teaching has taken root—that the child is internalizing good values and can articulate them in his own words. This is the fruit of all the instruction and discipline.
Proverbs 23:16 in the Original Language
kilyot (כִּלְיוֹת), 'reins' — innermost being, emotions, desires; the core of the person.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 23:16
What does Proverbs 23:16 mean?
A parent's innermost being is moved to joy when the child speaks wisely.
What is the context of Proverbs 23:16?
Intimate description of parental joy in the child's wise speech.