Proverbs 17:28

28 After all, even fools may be thought wise and intelligent if they stay quiet and keep their mouths shut. 1

Proverbs 17:28 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 17:28

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise
Not only one that is sparing of his words, and is really a man of knowledge and understanding; but even a feel, if he is but silent, and does not betray his folly by his words, will be reckoned a wise man by those that do not know him; and, whatever fool he may be in other respects, yet in this he acts the wise part, that he holds his peace and says nothing; [and] he that shutteth his lips [is esteemed] a man of understanding;
and keeps them shut, lest he should say anything rashly and hastily; a man that has so much command of himself as not to speak unadvisedly, through the heat of his own passions, and through the provocations of others, will pass for a man that understands himself, and knows how to behave well before others.

Proverbs 17:28 In-Context

26 It is not right to make an innocent person pay a fine; justice is perverted when good people are punished.
27 Those who are sure of themselves do not talk all the time. People who stay calm have real insight.
28 After all, even fools may be thought wise and intelligent if they stay quiet and keep their mouths shut.

Cross References 1

  • 1. +217.28Ben Sira 20.5.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.