Proverbs 11:22 Meaning of a Gold Ring in a Pig’s Snout

Proverbs 11:22
“Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.”

Explanation and Commentary of Proverbs 11:22

This somewhat humorous proverb refers to the relative ugliness of a woman with poor character, although she may be considered physically attractive. 1 Peter 3:3-4 says, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

Discretion describes how one speaks—both in the effort to cause no offense and in the unwillingness to disclose information that is private. It is a trustworthy character that foregoes the temporary pleasure and cheap connection that gossip creates. It should carry great weight that God finds the gentle and quiet spirit of a woman precious.

Breaking Down the Key Parts of Proverbs 11:22

#1 “Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout…”
These two objects, the ring of gold and the snout of a pig, do not belong together in the same company. While the pig makes the gold ring unattractive, the gold ring does nothing for the pig. Only the most superficial of persons will be able to value the physical beauty of a woman with no discretion.

#2 “…is a beautiful woman…”
God gives everyone different qualities, both physical, and mental. Some are blessed with physical attractiveness. What is considered beautiful tends to be universally acknowledged across regions and time to pertain to symmetry and good health. It should also be noted that physical attractiveness, though created by God, will fade with the passing of time into old age.

#3 “…who shows no discretion.”
If she shows no discretion, it is because she has no discretion. An inability to control the impulse toward rudeness or gossip is a sign of poor character, an unattractive enough quality to mar the appearance of a person.

Expert Overview of Proverbs

Biblical Translations of Proverbs 11:22

NIV
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

NLT
A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout.

ESV
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman without discretion.

KJV
As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

NKJV
As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout, So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion.