The Importance of Language
Canon Diggle. Proverbs 18:4 The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook. Language is one of the principal tests and standards of civilisation. The study of language is one of the most naturally interesting and naturally elevating studies with which the human mind can occupy itself. I. IT IS OF GREAT INTELLECTUAL IMPORTANCE. Only through the instrumentality of language can the thoughts of the mind be revealed and displayed. Nothing bewrays more obviously the rustiness and disorganisation of the intellect than inaccuracy and dulness of language. II. THE MORAL IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE IS STILL GREATER. As a rule the relations between intellect and conscience are harmonious. When the intellect is illuminated it brightens the conscience; when the conscience is quickened it animates the intellect. Language is often a standard of morals. Exactitude of utterance is seldom compatible with great frequency of utterance. Modern writing and modern speech are impotent because they are slipshod. Language is also a great moral force in the world by reason of its variety. A world of one language would not be a very interesting world. III. THE GREAT RELIGIOUS IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE. The utmost solemnity is attached in the Bible to the use of language. What man can think that words are light and little things when he remembers that it is through the instrumentality of words inspired that God has made known His greatest revelations to mankind? (Canon Diggle.) Parallel Verses KJV: The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook. WEB: The words of a man's mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is like a flowing brook.