The answer is: Silver

Pro 10:20

In Proverbs 10:20, the tongue of the just is compared to silver, which sparkles with a kind of brilliance and value, much like words that lift up and encourage rather than tear down. When we think of silver, we envision something precious and rare. It carries connotations of purity and worth, suggesting that the words spoken by those who are just should also carry weight, righteousness, and integrity.

In biblical times, silver was not only combined with great value but also used as currency. This attachment to wealth magnifies the value that positive speech holds in our lives. Words of the just can enrich our spiritual diversity and human connections, just as silver was historically valued in trades and exchanges.

Fun fact: did you know that silver is often associated with the idea of redemption in some Biblical texts, just like how it was used to purchase freedom? Such themes stretch beyond material wealth to represent the spiritual richness that follows just and honest speech.

Further, consider how the Christian tradition relates the power of words with the creation narrative in Genesis, where God spoke the universe into existence. This reminder resonates with us all: each spoken word has the potential to build or destroy, to liberate or bind, making it crucial to utilize our speech in a manner echoing that carriers of goodwill and truths akin to shimmering silver—delicate but durable. This vivid imagery compels us all to reflect on the kind of language we employ in our daily lives, lending itself to the weight of our character.