An honest answer given
Honesty is a central theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness in communication. In the ancient Near Eastern context, where Proverbs was written, honesty was a valued virtue in maintaining social harmony and trust within the community. The Hebrew word for "honest" here implies straightforwardness and integrity, reflecting God's nature as truth (John 14:6). This phrase underscores the biblical principle that truthfulness is foundational to righteous living (Ephesians 4:25). The act of giving an honest answer is seen as a reflection of one's character and commitment to God's standards.

is like a kiss on the lips.
In ancient Hebrew culture, a kiss on the lips was a sign of affection, respect, and deep friendship. It symbolized intimacy and trust, often used in familial and close relationships. This imagery suggests that an honest answer fosters closeness and mutual respect, akin to the bond shared through a kiss. The comparison highlights the value and beauty of truthfulness, suggesting that honesty can strengthen relationships and build community. This metaphor also points to the relational aspect of God's truth, as seen in Jesus Christ, who embodies grace and truth (John 1:14). The kiss on the lips can be seen as a type of Christ's love and truth, which brings believers into a closer relationship with God and each other.

1. Solomon
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom.

2. Ancient Israel
- The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written, where wisdom literature was highly valued.

3. The Wise
- A recurring theme in Proverbs, representing those who seek and apply God's wisdom in their lives.The Value of Honesty
An honest answer is precious and should be cherished like a kiss on the lips, symbolizing affection and trust.

Integrity in Communication
As Christians, we are called to speak truthfully and with integrity, reflecting God's character in our interactions.

Building Trust through Truthfulness
Honest communication builds trust and strengthens relationships, much like the intimacy and respect conveyed through a kiss.

The Role of Wisdom in Speech
Wisdom guides us to speak truthfully and appropriately, ensuring our words are both honest and edifying.

Cultural Understanding of Symbolism
Understanding the cultural symbolism of a "kiss on the lips" in ancient times helps us appreciate the depth of this proverb's message about honesty.(26) Every man shall kiss his lips . . . Rather, He kisseth the lips that giveth right answers. His words are as pleasant as if he had kissed the inquirer's lips.

Verse 26. - A distich connected with the subject of the preceding paragraph. Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer; or better, he kisseth the lips who giveth a right answer. An answer that is fair and suitable to the circumstances is as pleasant and assuring to the bearers as a kiss on the lips. Such a salutation would be a natural sign of sympathy and affection. Thus Absalom won the hearts of the people by kissing those who came to court with their suits (2 Samuel 15:5). In Genesis 41:40, where the Authorized Version has, "According to thy word shall all my people be ruled," the Hebrew runs, "Thy mouth shall all my people kiss," i.e. they shall do homage to thee, which is another signification of this action. This, however, would not be suitable here, as the kiss is supposed to be given by the speaker, though the LXX. mistakenly translates, "But men will kiss lips that answer good words."

Parallel Commentaries ...


An honest
נְכֹחִֽים׃ (nə·ḵō·ḥîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 5228: Straightforward, equitable, correct, integrity

answer
דְּבָרִ֥ים (də·ḇā·rîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 1697: A word, a matter, thing, a cause

given
מֵ֝שִׁ֗יב (mê·šîḇ)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

is like a kiss
יִשָּׁ֑ק (yiš·šāq)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5401: To kiss, to equip with weapons

on the lips.
שְׂפָתַ֥יִם (śə·p̄ā·ṯa·yim)
Noun - fd
Strong's 8193: The lip, language, a margin


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 24:26 An honest answer is like a kiss (Prov. Pro Pr)