4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

Other Translations of Proverbs 15:4

King James Version

4 A wholesome A wholesome...: Heb. The healing of the tongue tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

English Standard Version

4 A gentleOr healing tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

The Message

4 Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim.

New King James Version

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

New Living Translation

4 Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 15:4

Commentary on Proverbs 15:4

(Read Proverbs 15:4)

A good tongue is healing to wounded consciences, by comforting them; to sin-sick souls, by convincing them; and it reconciles parties at variance.