proverb · Words worth keeping
He that revealeth his secret maketh himself a slave.
He that revealeth his secret maketh himself a slave.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Sensitive information can give another person power over its owner. The saying warns about disclosure, while exaggerating the resulting dependence as enslavement.
Example
Someone shares only the personal details needed for a practical request and chooses a trustworthy setting for a fuller discussion.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A revealed secret is pictured as placing freedom in someone else’s hands. It can prompt thought about trust, purpose and what information is needed before sharing. Not all disclosure is a mistake: support, cooperation and accountability may depend on speaking openly. A careful reading distinguishes prudent privacy from isolation or concealment of harm. If another person exploits a confidence, responsibility for that exploitation belongs to them.
When to use it
Use it to consider trust and purpose before sharing sensitive information.
Keep in mind
Seeking help can require disclosure; betrayal is the responsibility of the person who exploits a confidence.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English