What does the Bible mention about stuttering?

Definition and Scope

Stuttering, often characterized by repetitions, prolongations, or blocks in the flow of speech, is not explicitly referenced by that specific term in the biblical text. However, the Scriptures do address impediments to speech in general and highlight individuals who considered themselves “slow of speech.” The most prominent example is the prophet and leader Moses, who expressed difficulty in speaking eloquently. While Scripture does not offer a modern clinical diagnosis of stuttering, the relevant passages shed light on how God views and works through speech challenges.

Biblical Terms and Language

In Hebrew, Moses uses phrases such as “heavy of mouth” (Exodus 4:10) and “uncircumcised lips” (Exodus 6:12, 6:30) to describe his perceived ineptitude or impediment in speech. These descriptors, translated in various ways, often convey slowness or difficulty in speaking rather than the fluent delivery of words. The Berean Standard Bible reflects this nuance by translating Moses’s expression as being “slow of speech and tongue” (Exodus 4:10).

Key Scriptural Passages

1. Moses’s “Slow of Speech”

“Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent—neither in the past nor since You have spoken to Your servant—for I am slow of speech and tongue.” (Exodus 4:10)

This declaration occurs at the burning bush when Moses, called by God to deliver Israel from Egypt, expresses concern about his verbal limitations. Moses’s admission of being “slow of speech and tongue” indicates an ongoing difficulty – whether a physical stutter or a lack of fluency, the Bible clearly records that Moses felt inadequate to communicate effectively.

2. God’s Response to Moses

“So the LORD said to him, ‘Who gave man his mouth? … Now go! I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say.’” (Exodus 4:11–12)

God’s answer emphasizes divine sovereignty over human abilities, including speech. Rather than denying Moses’s weakness, the LORD promises to empower him. This assurance underscores that difficulties in speech do not hinder God’s purposes.

3. “Faltering Lips” Before Pharaoh

“But in the presence of the LORD Moses replied, ‘If the Israelites will not listen to me, then how will Pharaoh? Since I speak with faltering lips?’” (Exodus 6:12)

Though having God’s promise, Moses repeatedly voices concern over his speech. Some English translations render the Hebrew phrase as “faltering lips” or “uncircumcised lips,” conveying that Moses was acutely aware of his speech challenge. Yet the biblical narrative affirms that neither Pharaoh’s hardness of heart nor Moses’s speech impediments thwarted God’s redemptive plan.

Other Possible Allusions

Certain passages speak of “stammering lips” in a metaphorical and prophetic sense (e.g., Isaiah 28:11–13). These phrases reflect a sense of halting or disjointed speech. Though not direct examples of clinical stuttering, they demonstrate that Scripture acknowledges speech difficulties in various contexts.

Theological Reflections

1. Human Weakness and Divine Strength

Moses’s story highlights a common theme: God often works powerfully through human frailty (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:9). Rather than side-stepping Moses’s slow speech, God accommodates Moses’s perceived limitation, even appointing Aaron as a spokesman. This reinforces that any speech impediment—be it stuttering, faltering, or another challenge—does not diminish one’s potential to fulfill God’s calling.

2. Fear and Calling

Moses’s hesitancy reveals the interplay between personal fear and divine calling. Scripture consistently portrays that God looks beyond outward abilities and sees the heart’s willingness. While Moses’s concern about his speaking ability was significant, God’s plan for him to lead His people remained non-negotiable. The narrative teaches that one’s limitations do not negate God’s sovereign assignments.

3. Speech as a Vehicle for God’s Message

Throughout Scripture, speech is often central to proclaiming God’s truths (1 Corinthians 1:21). Moses’s life underscores how the message’s potency rests on divine empowerment, not solely on the speaker’s eloquence. Future biblical figures—prophets, apostles, and even believers today—learn similarly that the power of God’s word surpasses human frailties.

Pastoral and Practical Considerations

For those today who struggle with stuttering or other speech difficulties, the account of Moses can serve as both encouragement and reminder:

• God is aware of every human limitation and can still use each person for significant purposes.

• Weakness in speech does not invalidate one’s message.

• A supportive community (like Moses’s brother Aaron) can provide encouragement and assistance.

• Faithful reliance on God’s help often leads to personal growth and confidence over time.

Historical and Manuscript Insights

Ancient manuscripts, including the Masoretic Text and fragments discovered among the Dead Sea Scrolls, uniformly preserve the description of Moses’s difficulty in speech. This consistency across textual witnesses underscores that the biblical depiction of Moses’s speech challenge is integral to his story—not an editorial addition. The mention of Moses’s struggle from earliest manuscript forms reaffirms its significance in the Exodus narrative.

Concluding Summary

The Bible’s references to stuttering, or a “slow of speech” condition, center primarily on Moses, who displayed reluctance in public speaking. Scripture records that God responded by empowering Moses and providing him with the right support, demonstrating that human weakness does not obstruct divine will. Ultimately, speech difficulties are set within the larger biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and grace. Even in areas of frailty, God’s purposes prevail, and His strength is made perfect in what we perceive as human limitation.