Do not believe his gracious speech, for seven abominations are stored in his heart.
A sharp and direct warning is added in Proverbs 26:25: When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart (v. 25).
When he speaks graciously, do not believe him. The wise man does not take such a person's smooth words at face value. Past behavior, accumulated context, and discernment together suggest that the gracious speech is a tactic.
For there are seven abominations in his heart. Seven, again, names fullness. His interior is loaded with offenses, every category of which the LORD detests. The wise reader is to understand that words alone are insufficient evidence about a man whose previous actions have shown him to be hostile. Time and a pattern of behavior are required before trust is restored.
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Proverbs 26:25 meaning
A sharp and direct warning is added in Proverbs 26:25: When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart (v. 25).
When he speaks graciously, do not believe him. The wise man does not take such a person's smooth words at face value. Past behavior, accumulated context, and discernment together suggest that the gracious speech is a tactic.
For there are seven abominations in his heart. Seven, again, names fullness. His interior is loaded with offenses, every category of which the LORD detests. The wise reader is to understand that words alone are insufficient evidence about a man whose previous actions have shown him to be hostile. Time and a pattern of behavior are required before trust is restored.