Proverbs 10:21 in the King James Version of the Bible states, "The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom." This verse is part of the Book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon, known for his wisdom in the Bible.

The theme of this verse revolves around the power of words and the impact they can have on others. It contrasts the effects of the words spoken by the righteous with those spoken by fools. The "lips of the righteous" are seen as a source of nourishment, feeding many with wisdom, guidance, and encouragement. In contrast, the "fools" are depicted as lacking wisdom, and their words lead to their own demise.

The word "feed" in this context can be understood as providing sustenance or nourishment, not just in a physical sense, but also in a spiritual and emotional sense. The "many" that are fed by the righteous could refer to a wide range of people who benefit from their wise counsel and words of comfort. This highlights the influence and reach of the righteous person's speech in positively impacting the lives of others.

On the other hand, the fate of the fools is starkly contrasted with that of the righteous. The verse declares that they "die for want of wisdom." This can be understood not only as a physical death but also as a metaphor for the consequences of their foolish words and actions leading to their own destruction and downfall. The lack of wisdom in their speech and behavior proves to be their undoing.

In a broader context, this verse speaks to the importance of wisdom and righteousness in how one communicates with others. It emphasizes the responsibility that comes with the power of speech and the potential to either uplift and nourish or bring about ruin and destruction. It also highlights the impact of our words on the lives of those around us, as well as the ultimate consequences of living a life devoid of wisdom and righteousness.

The backdrop of this verse is the wisdom literature of the ancient Near East, where the concept of wisdom was highly esteemed. The Book of Proverbs, in particular, is steeped in the wisdom tradition of ancient Israel, offering practical guidance for living a life of wisdom and righteousness.

Symbolically, the "lips of the righteous" can be seen as a representation of the righteous person's character and virtue. Their words are a reflection of their inner wisdom and moral integrity, which in turn have a positive impact on others. In contrast, the "fools" embody a lack of wisdom and moral insight, leading to their own downfall.

In conclusion, Proverbs 10:21 extols the power of the righteous person's words to nourish and enrich the lives of others, while also serving as a cautionary tale about the destructive consequences of foolish speech. It underscores the timeless importance of wisdom, righteousness, and the impact of our words in shaping our destinies and the lives of those around us. This verse continues to offer profound insights and timeless wisdom for contemporary readers seeking guidance on living a life of moral and ethical integrity.