Proverbs 4:24 Meaning and Explanation
“Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Reject crooked speech and keep perverse words far from you.
The Context of Proverbs 4:24
The father commands the rejection of crooked and perverse speech.
What Does Proverbs 4:24 Mean?
'Froward' means contrary, stubborn, crooked. The mouth and lips are singled out as needing specific attention. Just as one must avoid the path of the wicked, one must avoid corrupting language. The imperative is strong: 'put away,' 'put far'—not a mere recommendation but a clear command to distance yourself from such speech.
The emphasis suggests that words are not neutral. Crooked and perverse speech shapes the one who speaks it and corrupts those who hear it. By putting away such speech, one protects oneself and others. Speech is a window to the heart, and by guarding what comes out of the mouth, we guard the heart itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 4:24
What does Proverbs 4:24 mean?
Reject crooked speech and keep perverse words far from you.
What is the context of Proverbs 4:24?
The father commands the rejection of crooked and perverse speech.