Gossip is so delicious, and how we love to swallow it! For slander is easily absorbed into our innermost being. (23) Smooth talk can hide a corrupt heart just like a pretty glaze covers a cheap clay pot. (24) Kind words can be a cover to conceal hatred of others, for hypocrisy loves to hide fattery.
"The core message is a call to reject gossip and identify and beware of those who hide behind flattering words."