12 Bible Verses About Cursing

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Discover what the Bible has to say about cursing with these twelve powerful Bible verses.

The Bible discourages the use of foul language and emphasizes the importance of using words to build up and encourage others.

It also warns against using God’s name in vain and using words to deceive or manipulate others.

Our words have power and should be used wisely and with intention.

Explore relevant Bible chapters that discuss cursing and learn about related concepts taught in the Bible.

Bible verses about cursing

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about cursing:

1. Exodus 20:7 – “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”
2. James 3:10 – “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”
3. Matthew 5:44 – “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
4. Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”
5. Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”
6. Colossians 3:8 – “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”

7. Psalm 109:17 – “As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him.”
8. Proverbs 10:11 – “The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.”
9. Proverbs 15:1 – “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
10. Proverbs 21:23 – “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.”
11. Matthew 12:36-37 – “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”
12. Romans 12:14 – “Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.”

What does the Bible say about cursing?

The Bible discourages the use of foul language and cursing.

It emphasizes the importance of using words to build up and encourage others, rather than tearing them down.

The Bible also warns against using God’s name in vain and using words to deceive or manipulate others.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that our words have power and should be used wisely and with intention.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about cursing?

There are several Bible chapters that discuss cursing, but it is important to note that the definition of cursing can vary. In general, cursing can refer to using profanity or speaking harmful words to someone. Here are some chapters that touch on these themes:

James 3:1-12 – This chapter warns against the power of the tongue and the harm that it can cause. It discusses how the tongue can be used for good or for evil, and how important it is to control our speech.

Colossians 3:8-10 – This chapter urges readers to put away anger, wrath, malice, and blasphemy from their mouths. It encourages them to put on the new self and to speak truthfully and with grace.

Ephesians 4:29-32 – This chapter emphasizes the importance of speaking in a way that builds others up, rather than tearing them down. It encourages readers to speak only what is helpful for building others up, and to avoid bitterness, rage, and slander.

Proverbs 12:18 – This chapter states that reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. It emphasizes the power of words to hurt or to heal.

Matthew 5:21-22 – This chapter discusses Jesus’ teaching on anger and insults. He warns that anyone who calls someone a fool is in danger of hellfire, and urges his followers to reconcile with others before bringing offerings to God.

These chapters are relevant to cursing because they discuss the importance of controlling our speech and using our words in a way that honors God and builds up others. They caution against the harm that can come from using harmful or careless words, and encourage us to use our tongues for good.

Ideas and concepts related to cursing that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

The Bible talks about several concepts related to cursing, including:

1. Profanity: The use of vulgar or offensive language is condemned in the Bible, as it is seen as a reflection of a corrupt heart and a lack of self-control. This relates to cursing in that both involve the use of language that is considered inappropriate or harmful.

2. Blessing and cursing: The Bible speaks of the power of words to either bless or curse others. This relates to cursing in that it highlights the potential harm that can be caused by negative or hurtful speech.

3. Judgment: The Bible teaches that God will judge all people based on their words and actions. This relates to cursing in that those who use foul language or speak in a harmful way may be judged more harshly than those who do not.

4. Forgiveness: The Bible emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, even in the face of hurtful words or actions. This relates to cursing in that it encourages us to seek forgiveness and make amends when we have spoken in a hurtful or harmful way.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.