Proverbs 19:28
Proverbs 19:28 in Multiple Translations
A corrupt witness mocks justice, and a wicked mouth swallows iniquity.
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
A worthless witness mocketh at justice; And the mouth of the wicked swalloweth iniquity.
A good-for-nothing witness makes sport of the judge's decision: and the mouth of evil-doers sends out evil like a stream.
A crooked witness makes a mockery of justice; and the wicked wolf down evil.
A wicked witnes mocketh at iudgement, and the mouth of ye wicked swalloweth vp iniquitie.
A worthless witness scorneth judgment, And the mouth of the wicked swalloweth iniquity.
A corrupt witness mocks justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down iniquity.
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
An unjust witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
Worthless witnesses in court make fun of judges who try to make fair decisions, and wicked people enjoy doing evil like they enjoy eating good food [MET].
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 19:28
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 19:28 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
עֵ֣ד
בְּ֭לִיַּעַל
יָלִ֣יץ
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
וּ/פִ֥י
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
יְבַלַּע
אָֽוֶן
עֵ֣ד
ʻêd
H5707
witness
N-ms
בְּ֭לִיַּעַל
bᵉlîyaʻal
H1100
Belial
N-ms
יָלִ֣יץ
lûwts
H3887
to mock
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
mishpâṭ
H4941
justice
N-ms
וּ/פִ֥י
peh
H6310
lip
Conj | N-ms
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
râshâʻ
H7563
wicked
Adj
יְבַלַּע
bâlaʻ
H1104
to swallow up
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
אָֽוֶן
ʼâven
H205
evil
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 19:28
עֵ֣ד
ʻêd
H5707
"witness"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means witness or testimony, describing someone who sees or experiences something. It's used in the Bible to talk about people who testify to what they've seen, like in Deuteronomy when describing legal witnesses.
Definition: 1) witness 1a) witness, testimony, evidence (of things) 1b) witness (of people)
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: witness. See also: Genesis 31:44; Psalms 27:12; Psalms 35:11.
בְּ֭לִיַּעַל
bᵉlîyaʻal
H1100
"Belial"
N-ms
Belial refers to something or someone worthless or wicked, often translated as evil or ungodly. It describes people or actions that are good for nothing and lead to destruction.
Definition: : worthless 1) worthlessness 1a) worthless, good for nothing, unprofitable, base fellow 1b) wicked 1c) ruin, destruction (construct) Also means: be.liy.ya.al (בְּלִיַּ֫עַל ": destruction" H1100H)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: Belial, evil, naughty, ungodly (men), wicked. See also: Deuteronomy 13:14; 2 Samuel 23:6; Psalms 18:5.
יָלִ֣יץ
lûwts
H3887
"to mock"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
This word means to mock or scorn someone, often by making fun of them or talking down to them. It can also refer to interpreting languages or acting as an ambassador. In some cases, it describes a person who is arrogant or boastful.
Definition: 1) to scorn, make mouths at, talk arrogantly 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to boast 1a2) to scorn 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to mock, deride 1b2) to interpret (language) 1b2a) interpreter (participle) 1b2b) ambassador (fig.) 1c) (Hithpalpel) to be inflated, scoff, act as a scorner, show oneself a mocker Also means: la.tsats (לָצַץ "to scorn" H3945)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker, scorn(-er, -ful), teacher. See also: Genesis 42:23; Proverbs 14:9; Psalms 1:1.
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
mishpâṭ
H4941
"justice"
N-ms
Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.
Definition: : judgement/punishment 1) judgment, justice, ordinance 1a) judgment 1a1) act of deciding a case 1a2) place, court, seat of judgment 1a3) process, procedure, litigation (before judges) 1a4) case, cause (presented for judgment) 1a5) sentence, decision (of judgment) 1a6) execution (of judgment) 1a7) time (of judgment) 1b) justice, right, rectitude (attributes of God or man) 1c) ordinance 1d) decision (in law) 1e) right, privilege, due (legal) 1f) proper, fitting, measure, fitness, custom, manner, plan
Usage: Occurs in 406 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, ceremony, charge, [idiom] crime, custom, desert, determination, discretion, disposing, due, fashion, form, to be judged, judgment, just(-ice, -ly), (manner of) law(-ful), manner, measure, (due) order, ordinance, right, sentence, usest, [idiom] worthy, [phrase] wrong. See also: Genesis 18:19; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:5.
וּ/פִ֥י
peh
H6310
"lip"
Conj | N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.
Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21
Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
râshâʻ
H7563
"wicked"
Adj
This word describes someone who is morally wrong, a bad person who is guilty of crime or sin against God or others. It is used to describe the wicked in biblical stories, such as in the book of Genesis.
Definition: 1) wicked, criminal 1a) guilty one, one guilty of crime (subst) 1b) wicked (hostile to God) 1c) wicked, guilty of sin (against God or man)
Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] condemned, guilty, ungodly, wicked (man), that did wrong. See also: Genesis 18:23; Psalms 101:8; Psalms 1:1.
יְבַלַּע
bâlaʻ
H1104
"to swallow up"
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
This word means to swallow or destroy something completely. It can be used to describe something being eaten up or destroyed, like in a natural disaster or a strong storm. The Bible uses it to convey total destruction.
Definition: 1) to swallow down, swallow up, engulf, eat up 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to swallow down 1a2) to swallow up, engulf 1b) (Niphal) to be swallowed up 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to swallow 1c2) to swallow up, engulf 1c3) squandering (fig.) 1d) (Pual) to be swallowed up 1e) (Hithpael) to be ended
Usage: Occurs in 48 OT verses. KJV: cover, destroy, devour, eat up, be at end, spend up, swallow down (up). See also: Genesis 41:7; Psalms 106:17; Psalms 21:10.
אָֽוֶן
ʼâven
H205
"evil"
N-ms
This word refers to evil, wickedness, or trouble, often describing idolatry or iniquity, and is used in various KJV translations to convey a sense of wrongdoing.
Definition: 1) trouble, wickedness, sorrow 1a) trouble, sorrow 1b) idolatry 1c) trouble of iniquity, wickedness Also means: a.ven (אָ֫וֶן ": trouble" H0205H)
Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: affliction, evil, false, idol, iniquity, mischief, mourners(-ing), naught, sorrow, unjust, unrighteous, vain, vanity, wicked(-ness). Compare H369 (אַיִן). See also: Numbers 23:21; Psalms 94:23; Psalms 5:6.
Study Notes — Proverbs 19:28
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 19:28 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 19:28
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 19:28
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 19:28
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 19:28
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
- Sermons on Proverbs 19:28
Context — The Man of Integrity
26He who assaults his father or evicts his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace.
27If you cease to hear instruction, my son, you will stray from the words of knowledge.
28A corrupt witness mocks justice, and a wicked mouth swallows iniquity.
29Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 15:16 | how much less man, who is vile and corrupt, who drinks injustice like water? |
| 2 | Job 34:7 | What man is like Job, who drinks up derision like water? |
| 3 | Luke 18:2–4 | “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected men. And there was a widow in that town who kept appealing to him, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect men, |
| 4 | Acts 6:11–13 | Then they prompted some men to say, “We heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God.” So they stirred up the people, elders, and scribes and confronted Stephen. They seized him and brought him before the Sanhedrin, where they presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. |
| 5 | Job 20:12–13 | Though evil is sweet in his mouth and he conceals it under his tongue, though he cannot bear to let it go and keeps it in his mouth, |
| 6 | Hosea 4:8 | They feed on the sins of My people and set their hearts on iniquity. |
| 7 | 1 Kings 21:10 | But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them testify, ‘You have cursed both God and the king!’ Then take him out and stone him to death.” |
| 8 | Psalms 10:5 | He is secure in his ways at all times; Your lofty judgments are far from him; he sneers at all his foes. |
| 9 | Isaiah 28:14–18 | Therefore hear the word of the LORD, O scoffers who rule this people in Jerusalem. For you said, “We have made a covenant with death; we have fashioned an agreement with Sheol. When the overwhelming scourge passes through it will not touch us, because we have made lies our refuge and falsehood our hiding place.” So this is what the Lord GOD says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken. I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the level. Hail will sweep away your refuge of lies, and water will flood your hiding place. Your covenant with death will be dissolved, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand. When the overwhelming scourge passes through, you will be trampled by it. |
| 10 | Psalms 10:11 | He says to himself, “God has forgotten; He hides His face and never sees.” |
Proverbs 19:28 Summary
Proverbs 19:28 teaches us that it's very important to tell the truth and be honest, because lying or giving false testimony can hurt people and undermine justice. When we speak lies or harmful words, it's like swallowing something poisonous that can harm ourselves and others, as seen in Psalms 52:4. On the other hand, speaking the truth and seeking to build up others is a key part of living a life that honors God, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:25 and Colossians 3:8-10. By choosing to speak truth and promote justice, we can reflect the character of God and bring glory to Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be a corrupt witness?
A corrupt witness is someone who intentionally gives false or misleading testimony, which is a serious offense against God and humanity, as seen in Proverbs 19:28 and also warned against in Exodus 20:16 and Deuteronomy 19:16-19.
How does a wicked mouth swallow iniquity?
A wicked mouth swallows iniquity by speaking lies, slander, or other harmful words that bring harm to others, and this can lead to a lifestyle of sin and rebellion against God, as warned in Proverbs 19:28 and also in Psalms 52:4 and Ephesians 4:29.
What is the relationship between justice and corrupt witnesses?
Corrupt witnesses mock justice, meaning they undermine the pursuit of truth and fairness, which is essential for a just society, as emphasized in Proverbs 19:28 and also in Isaiah 59:14-15 and Amos 5:24.
How can we avoid being corrupt witnesses or having wicked mouths?
We can avoid being corrupt witnesses or having wicked mouths by fearing God, speaking the truth, and seeking to edify and build up others, as exhorted in Proverbs 19:28, Ephesians 4:25, and Colossians 3:8-10.
Reflection Questions
- In what ways can I be a truthful and trustworthy witness in my daily life, reflecting the character of God?
- How can I guard my mouth and tongue to avoid speaking harm or lies to others, and instead speak life-giving words?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be tolerating or perpetuating iniquity, and how can I repent and seek God's forgiveness?
- In what ways can I promote justice and fairness in my community, and how can I support those who are seeking to uphold truth and righteousness?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 19:28
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment,.... Or, "a witness of Belial" (z).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 19:28
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity. An ungodly witness (Hebrew, a witness of Belial) scorneth judgment - justice.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
Scorneth judgment; hath no reverence to the place of justice, nor to the presence of God there, nor to that sacred and solemn work of executing judgment, but in spite of all gives in a false testimony. Devoureth iniquity; uttereth with as great greediness, and delight, and ease, as they swallow down delicious meats and drinks. Compare .
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
Proverbs 19:28 An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.Ver. 28. An ungodly witness scorneth judgment.] As if he were out of the reach of God’ s rod. And because "judgment is not presently executed, therefore his heart is set in him to do wickedly," he looks upon God as an abettor of his perjury. His mouth devoureth iniquity, as some savoury morsel. But know they not that there will be bitterness in the end? Let them but mark what follows.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
(28) An ungodly (worthless) witness scorneth judgment.—Despises the orders of the Law to avoid perjury (Exodus 20:16; Leviticus 5:1). (Comp. 1 Kings 8:31). The mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.—As a dainty morsel. (Comp. Proverbs 18:8.)
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 19:28
28. ungodly] Rather, worthless. See Proverbs 6:12, note.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 19:28
Ungodly witness - literally, “Witness of Belial,” “worthless,” “untruthful.” Devoureth iniquity - Seizes on it eagerly, as a dainty, lives on it.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 19:28
28. An ungodly witness — One not of God, untruthful. Scorneth judgment — Mocketh, derideth it. He hath no concern that justice be done. Devoureth iniquity — Greedily, as a dainty morsel.
Sermons on Proverbs 19:28
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
The Mischief of Sin by Thomas Watson | Thomas Watson preaches about the mischief of sin, highlighting God's mercy in saving Christians from persisting in sin and the consequences of unrepentant sinners storing up wrath |
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To Fill Heaven With Hells by Thomas Brooks | Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave condition of wicked men who willingly indulge in sin, illustrating how their hearts are hardened and their consciences seared. He warns that such |
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Seeking God for Power - Coming to an End of Ourselves by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea of being filled by God. He uses the analogy of a boat being filled with fish and a net being filled with fish to illustrate this co |
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Growth Follows Revival by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, B. Earl shares a personal story about his struggles as an evangelist. He describes how he prepared tough and hard-hitting sermons in an attempt to reach stubborn pe |
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Sinners Delay Concerns the Soul by Jonathan Edwards | Jonathan Edwards preaches on sinners delaying concerns of the soul, focusing on how individuals often postpone addressing their spiritual needs for what they perceive as a more con |
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False Refuge by Rolfe Barnard | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the state of the people and how they have turned to lies and falsehood as their refuge. He refers to the scripture that says God has laid a |
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The Consequences of Failing to Know God by Art Katz | Art Katz addresses the tragic assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, emphasizing the dire consequences of a nation that fails to know and trust God. He reflects on |