Proverbs 20:15
ESV
There is gold and abundance of costly stones, but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
NIV
Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
NASB
There is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.
CSB
There is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.
NLT
Wise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies.
KJV
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
NKJV
There is gold and a multitude of rubies, But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
What does Proverbs 20:15 mean?
Solomon makes an interesting comparison in this verse. He compares the value of speaking knowledgeably with the value of gold and jewels and concludes that wise words are more precious. This valuation of godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–6) is expressed in numerous ways in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 3:13–15; 16:16; 22:1). Well-considered, well-timed, well-spoken wisdom is an incredibly valuable gift (Proverbs 8:11; 15:23; 27:9).Jesus, "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3), always spoke wisely. He taught about heaven, the value of human life, righteousness, pleasing and glorifying God, and genuine love for God and others. Consequently, crowds followed Him to hear what He would say, and it was said that "no one ever spoke like this man" (John 7:46). Jesus rightly claimed, "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63). When Jesus asked His disciples if they would abandon Him, Peter quickly responded, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68).
