What does Proverbs 16:27 mean?

Proverbs 16:27 highlights themes such as evil, speech, conflict when read in context.

How should I apply Proverbs 16:27 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

25There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

26He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

27An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

28A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

29A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

evilspeechconflict

James 3:6
Both verses warn about the destructive power of the tongue.
Proverbs 10:18
Both verses discuss the consequences of speaking evil.
Matthew 12:34
Jesus teaches that the mouth speaks what the heart is full of, similar to the idea of evil speech.