Proverbs 13:17

Amharic Tigrinya 2011

ረሲእ ልእኽ ኣብ እከይ ይወድቕ፡ እሙን መልእኽተኛ ግና ጥዕና እዩ።

What Does This Mean?

Proverbs 13:17 says that a messenger who is dishonest will get into trouble, but a messenger who is truthful brings health or well-being. This verse contrasts the results of dishonesty and honesty.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're a messenger in a big castle. If you tell the king the truth, everyone is happy and healthy. But if you tell lies, you might get into big trouble. The verse is like a rule that says telling the truth is always the best way.

Historical Background

The book of Proverbs was compiled over centuries, with some sections attributed to King Solomon. It was written for a general audience, offering wisdom and advice on various aspects of life. This proverb reflects the cultural value placed on honesty and reliability.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, a business can use this principle by ensuring their representatives always tell the truth to customers. This builds trust and ensures long-term success, unlike the quick gains that could come from dishonesty.

Topics

• honesty
• consequences
• wisdom
• truth
• trust
• reputation

Related Verses

• Exodus 20:16
• Proverbs 12:17
• Proverbs 14:5
• Ephesians 4:25
• Titus 2:7

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'mischief' mean in this context?

'Mischief' here refers to the negative consequences or troubles that come from being dishonest. It suggests that dishonest actions lead to harmful outcomes.

Why is a 'faithful ambassador' described as 'health'?

A faithful ambassador, by being honest and truthful, contributes positively to the well-being of those they represent. Their actions promote health and harmony, in contrast to the chaos caused by dishonesty.

Can this verse apply to social media?

Yes, this verse can apply to social media. Just as a faithful messenger brings health, a truthful post or message on social media can promote positive interactions and prevent the spread of misinformation.

How does this relate to the principle of integrity?

This verse underlines the importance of integrity, which is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It shows that integrity in communication leads to positive outcomes and well-being.