Proverbs 17:28

28 Even fools who keep silent are considered wise; when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.

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 To impose a fine on the innocent is not right, or to flog the noble for their integrity.
27 One who spares words is knowledgeable; one who is cool in spirit has understanding.
28 Even fools who keep silent are considered wise; when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.