Proverbs 12:17 (BSB)

He who speaks the truth declares what is right, but a false witness speaks deceit.

From Proverbs 12. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:17

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 12:17: Here is, 1. A faithful witness commended for an honest man. He that makes conscience of speaking truth, and representing every thing fairly, to the best of his knowledge, whether in judgment or in common conversation, whether he be upon his oath or no, he shows forth righteousness; he makes it to appear that he is governed and actuated by the principles and laws of...
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 12:17: He that speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness,.... He that "blows" or "breathes out truth" (d), as the word signifies; that utters it freely and fully without any hesitation; that speaks nothing but truth, and speaks out the whole truth without any reserve; such a man upon every occasion will declare that which is just and right, and show himself to be an honest and upright...
• Keil & Delitzsch (Lutheran), Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament on Proverbs 12:17: Pro 12:17 Most of the remaining parables of this section refer to the right use and the abuse of the tongue. 17 He that breathes the love of truth, utters that which is right; But a lying tongue, deceit This verse is similar in meaning to Pro 14:5 (where 5b = Pro 6:19); the second line of the distich = Pro 14:25.