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The Thoughts of the Wicked are Detestable to God, and Pure Words are Pleasing to God

Proverbs 15:26 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
²⁶The thoughts of the wicked are detestable to Jehovah,
but pleasant words are pure.

This verse suggests that Jehovah finds the thoughts and intentions of wicked or evil individuals to be revolting or repugnant, while kind or gracious words are pleasing to him. It implies that one’s thoughts and intentions are just as important as one’s actions and words.

The thoughts of the wicked – refer to the inner musings and intentions of individuals who are deemed wicked or evil by God.

Are detestable to Jehovah – means that these thoughts are deeply offensive or revolting to God.

But pleasant words are pure – implies that in contrast to the wicked thoughts, kind and thoughtful words spoken by individuals are pleasing and acceptable to God.

The verse as a whole emphasizes the importance of not only our actions but also our thoughts and intentions in the eyes of God. It suggests that the Lord values a kind and pure heart just as much as kind and pure words. It also implies that one should strive to align their thoughts and intentions with God’s will in order to please and honor him.

This verse is one of many in the book that emphasizes the importance of moral and ethical behavior. In the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, the concept of righteousness and wickedness were closely tied to one’s adherence to the laws and commandments of God. So the verse emphasizes that the thoughts and intentions of those who disobey God’s laws and commandments are an abomination to him, and in contrast, those who have pure thoughts and intentions, which align with God’s laws and commandments, are pure.

It is also important to note that in ancient Israelite society, words were highly valued as a means of communication and a way to establish relationships, so the emphasis on gracious words being pure is consistent with the value placed on effective communication in that culture.

In summary, Proverbs 15:26 highlights the importance of aligning one’s thoughts and intentions with God’s laws and commandments and the value placed on kind and gracious words in ancient Israelite society. It serves as a reminder that one’s thoughts and intentions are just as important as one’s actions and words in the eyes of God.