Matthew Poole and continuators on Proverbs 18:8

8 The words of a tale-bearer are as wounds , and they go down into the in nermost parts of the belly .

Who privily slandereth his Neighbour.

Deeply wound the Reputation, and afterwards the Heart, of the slandered person. Compare Prov. 12. 18. Or, as others render the word, are as smooth or flattering, i. e. they really are so; the particle as, being oft used to express the truth of the thing, as hath been noted before. See also Ioh. 1. 14. They are softer than Oil, as is said Psal. 55. 21. For slanderers use to cover and usher in their calumnies with pretences of kindness and compassion to them whom they traduce.

They wound mortally, piercing to the very heart, which is oft meant by the belly, as Iob 15. 35. & 32. 19. &c.

Marginal references: Ch. 12. 18. & 26. 22.; Or, whisperer.; Or, like as; Or, but. when men are wounded.; Heb. Chambers.