Precious Speech
Moshe Rabbeinu said to Hashem: “I have blocked lips (ערל שפתיים)” (Exodus 6:12). Onkelos (Aramaic translation) translates ערל שפתיים as יקיר ממלל, which can be literally understood to mean, precious in expression [unlike the more common translation: blocked lips]. This can be understood as follows: Moshe argued that every word he utters is precious, for speech itself is valuable. Therefore, it would be a shame to go to Pharaoh, since it is known in advance that he would not listen to Hashem’s words.
(Rabbi Bunem of Pshiskha)
Strengthening Emotions
Speech can strengthen or weaken emotions. When a person speaks words of love, it increases his love for another more than before he spoke. Likewise with anger; when a person speaks with anger it grows stronger. Yet, when he remains silent, the anger weakens until it disappears entirely.
(the Rebbe Rashab)
Bringing Ideas into the World
The Maggid of Mezritch had a custom: whenever he had a new insight, he would immediately speak it aloud, even if listeners didn’t fully understand. By speaking it, he drew down the insight into this world, allowing even someone far away to access and understand it.
(the Alter Rebbe)
Speech Reveals
The purpose of speech is to bring what is hidden into revelation, since thoughts alone remain hidden. By speaking of another’s virtues, one reveals the goodness concealed within him. This act has a significant positive effect on the person.
(the Rebbe)
