Our words create predictable results, just like the north wind inevitably bringing rainfall.
Just as “the north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) in Proverbs 25:23, this verse highlights how certain causes lead to predictable outcomes. When strong winds blow in from the north over the ancient land of Israel, they often carry storm clouds, bringing rain to refresh but also to remind of nature’s power. Israel, located along the eastern Mediterranean coast, experienced varying weather patterns influenced by regional winds, and the north wind could drastically alter the climate, just as speaking harmful words can drastically affect relationships. This statement connects the predictable cause-and-effect pattern of weather changes to the tension that rises when someone speaks maliciously about others behind their backs.
“And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) presents a linkage between the spoken word and the emotional response it provokes. Backbiting, or speaking negatively about someone in their absence, often creates an atmosphere of mistrust and division. Historically, King Solomon (who ruled Israel from about 970 to 931 BC) compiled many of the proverbs to convey wisdom and moral instruction to future generations. This instruction underscores how an unguarded tongue can easily spark tension and anger, just as the wind inevitably stirs up storms (James 3:6). In the teaching of Jesus, the condition of one’s heart is reflected in one’s words, illustrating how speech can edify or tear down (Matthew 15:11).
By paralleling the uncontrollable natural event of rain with the social consequence of backbiting, “the north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) serves as a warning to be mindful of our words, for our speech can bring storms of conflict if wielded carelessly. Rather than allowing gossip or slander to arouse anger, believers are called to exercise wisdom and kindness, reflecting the goodness of God and the example of Jesus who spoke truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
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Proverbs 25:23 meaning
Just as “the north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) in Proverbs 25:23, this verse highlights how certain causes lead to predictable outcomes. When strong winds blow in from the north over the ancient land of Israel, they often carry storm clouds, bringing rain to refresh but also to remind of nature’s power. Israel, located along the eastern Mediterranean coast, experienced varying weather patterns influenced by regional winds, and the north wind could drastically alter the climate, just as speaking harmful words can drastically affect relationships. This statement connects the predictable cause-and-effect pattern of weather changes to the tension that rises when someone speaks maliciously about others behind their backs.
“And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) presents a linkage between the spoken word and the emotional response it provokes. Backbiting, or speaking negatively about someone in their absence, often creates an atmosphere of mistrust and division. Historically, King Solomon (who ruled Israel from about 970 to 931 BC) compiled many of the proverbs to convey wisdom and moral instruction to future generations. This instruction underscores how an unguarded tongue can easily spark tension and anger, just as the wind inevitably stirs up storms (James 3:6). In the teaching of Jesus, the condition of one’s heart is reflected in one’s words, illustrating how speech can edify or tear down (Matthew 15:11).
By paralleling the uncontrollable natural event of rain with the social consequence of backbiting, “the north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance” (v.23) serves as a warning to be mindful of our words, for our speech can bring storms of conflict if wielded carelessly. Rather than allowing gossip or slander to arouse anger, believers are called to exercise wisdom and kindness, reflecting the goodness of God and the example of Jesus who spoke truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).