Proverbs 30:32
Proverbs 30:32 Meaning and Explanation
“If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If you have acted foolishly or thought evil, keep silence.
The Context of Proverbs 30:32
A personal warning to guard against folly and evil through silence.
What Does Proverbs 30:32 Mean?
The verse pivots from observation of others' dignity to a personal warning. If you have lifted yourself up unwisely (like the lofty-eyed generation) or harbored evil thought, the remedy is silence.
Laying one's hand on the mouth is the gesture of restraint and humility. Silence protects you from compounding foolishness with speech and gives you space to repent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 30:32
What does Proverbs 30:32 mean?
If you have acted foolishly or thought evil, keep silence.
What is the context of Proverbs 30:32?
A personal warning to guard against folly and evil through silence.