What does Proverbs 30:10 mean?
What is the meaning of Proverbs 30:10?

Do not slander a servant to his master

Slander is any false or malicious statement that harms another’s reputation. Scripture repeatedly forbids it (Exodus 23:1; Leviticus 19:16; Proverbs 10:18). Notice that the target here is “a servant,” someone already in a vulnerable position. God defends the weak (Psalm 72:4), so He calls us to treat them justly.

• We must speak truthfully, even about people who cannot easily defend themselves (Ephesians 4:25).

• We must not exploit our access to those in authority to settle personal grudges (Proverbs 25:9-10).

• We must remember that every person, including servants and employees, is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), so their dignity matters.


or he will curse you

When a wronged servant “curses,” he calls down judgment on the slanderer. Proverbs 26:2 teaches that an undeserved curse won’t land, but a deserved one will. God hears the cries of the oppressed (James 5:4), and He acts on their behalf (Psalm 140:12).

• A servant’s plea for justice can move heaven itself, as seen when Israel groaned under Egyptian slavery and God responded (Exodus 2:23-25).

• Wrongful accusations provoke righteous anger (Proverbs 24:24-25), and that anger can turn into a cry for divine vindication (Psalm 35:23-24).


and you will bear the guilt

The consequence is unavoidable accountability. False witness never goes unpunished (Proverbs 19:5). Words carry weight, and God will judge every careless one (Matthew 12:36).

• Personal guilt remains even if the lie seems successful for a time (Proverbs 20:17).

• What we sow we will reap (Galatians 6:7-8).

• Earthly penalties may follow—loss of credibility, strained relationships—but eternal judgment is the greater issue (Revelation 21:8).


summary

Proverbs 30:10 literally warns: keep your tongue from falsehood, especially when speaking about those under authority. Slander invites the victim’s curse and places the slanderer under God’s judgment. Honest, compassionate speech aligns us with the Lord who loves justice and safeguards the vulnerable.

In what ways does Proverbs 30:9 address the issue of integrity?
Top of Page
Top of Page