Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage: The term "babble" generally refers to speech that is incoherent, foolish, or meaningless. In a biblical context, it often denotes idle talk or vain repetitions that lack substance or sincerity. The concept of babbling is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is often associated with ungodliness or a lack of true wisdom. Biblical References: 1. Ecclesiastes 10:14 : "Yet the fool multiplies words. No one knows what is coming, and who can tell him what will come after him?" This verse highlights the futility of excessive and foolish speech, suggesting that such babbling is characteristic of a fool who speaks without knowledge or understanding of the future. 2. Proverbs 10:19 : "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." Here, the wisdom literature of Proverbs warns against the dangers of excessive talking, implying that babbling can lead to sin. The wise person exercises restraint in speech, avoiding the pitfalls of idle chatter. 3. Matthew 6:7 : "And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard." In this teaching from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers to avoid the vain repetitions characteristic of pagan prayers. The emphasis is on sincere and meaningful communication with God, rather than empty and repetitive phrases. 4. 1 Timothy 6:20 : "O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called knowledge." The Apostle Paul warns Timothy to steer clear of irreverent and empty talk, which he associates with false knowledge. This suggests that babbling can be a distraction from true faith and sound doctrine. Theological Implications: In the biblical narrative, babbling is often contrasted with wisdom and meaningful communication. It is seen as a manifestation of folly and a lack of spiritual depth. The Bible encourages believers to be mindful of their words, promoting speech that is edifying, truthful, and reflective of a sincere heart. Practical Application: For Christians, the admonition against babbling serves as a reminder to cultivate thoughtful and intentional communication. Whether in prayer, teaching, or everyday conversation, believers are called to speak with purpose and clarity, avoiding the pitfalls of idle or meaningless talk. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of using one's words to build up others and glorify God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To utter words indistinctly or unintelligibly; to utter inarticulate sounds; as a child babbles.2. (v. i.) To talk incoherently; to utter unmeaning words. 3. (v. i.) To talk much; to chatter; to prate. 4. (v. i.) To make a continuous murmuring noise, as shallow water running over stones. 5. (v. i.) To utter in an indistinct or incoherent way; to repeat, as words, in a childish way without understanding. 6. (v. i.) To disclose by too free talk, as a secret. 7. (n.) Idle talk; senseless prattle; gabble; twaddle. 8. (n.) Inarticulate speech; constant or confused murmur. Greek 2757. kenophonia -- empty talk ... Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: kenophonia Phonetic Spelling: (ken-of-o- nee'-ah) Short Definition: empty disputing, worthless babble Definition: empty ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2757.htm - 6k 2981. lalia -- talk 3150. mataiologia -- idle or foolish talk 5397. phluaros -- babbling Strong's Hebrew 981. bata -- to speak rashly or thoughtlessly... pronounce, speak unadvisedly. Or batah {baw-taw'}; a primitive root; to babble; hence, to vociferate angrily -- pronounce, speak (unadvisedly). 980, 981. ... /hebrew/981.htm - 6k Library The Next Night Diamond was Seated by his Open Window... The Lord's Prayer: the Preface in Matthew Psalm LXXVII. The Love of Rameses The Son of the Murket Impressive Phrases Answer to Objections: Conditions Necessary to Prayer The Teacher Spirit The Words of Our Lips. Watching unto God in the Night Season Thesaurus Babble (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Babble (1 Occurrence). Job 11:3 Should your boastings make men hold their peace? When you mock, shall no man make you ashamed? ... /b/babble.htm - 7k Prate (1 Occurrence) Babbler (4 Occurrences) Fowl (73 Occurrences) Drivel (1 Occurrence) Mocker (11 Occurrences) Mocking (25 Occurrences) Mock (43 Occurrences) Baasha's (5 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that God is not the author of confusion? | GotQuestions.orgIs there a heavenly language? What language will we speak in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to be godless? | GotQuestions.org Babble: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Babble (1 Occurrence)Job 11:3 Subtopics Related Terms |