We can connect this series of proverbs to the theme of ethical and social relationships. Such relationships must be grounded in love that “covers over a multitude of sins” (12), which then takes on various nuances or channels of transmission and dissemination, symbolized by the lips to show that they must be understood in relationships with others. The lips, meaning the mouth, the channel through which a person’s inner self is expressed, should serve truth and justice. That is a way of experiencing love. Chatter is the opposite of lips used for good. The theme of the mouth, lips, and tongue is revisited in verses 31 and following, with the same meaning.