Proverbs 14:33

33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.^[a]

Proverbs 14:33 in Other Translations

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

33 Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding, but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools.

33 Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart; wisdom is not found among fools.

33 Lady Wisdom is at home in an understanding heart - fools never even get to say hello.

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; But [that which is] in the inward part of fools is made known.

33 Wisdom finds rest in the heart of an understanding person. Even fools recognize this.

33 Wisdom resides in the heart of the discerning; she is known even among fools.

33 Wisdom rests in the hearts of those who understand what is right. And even among foolish people she makes herself known.

Proverbs 14:33 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 14:33

Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding,
&c.] It is in his heart, as the treasury where it is laid up, and where it is kept in safety; here it lies hid and undiscerned, unmolested and undisturbed; no noise is made about it, or any ostentation of it; it dwells quietly and constantly there; but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known;
the least share of knowledge which such persons have, or think they have, does not lie long in the midst of them; they take every opportunity of showing it to others, or of letting others know what they have attained to; and thereby, instead of getting the character of wise and prudent men, obtain that of fools; for, though a prudent man is communicative of his knowledge to others, it is at proper times, and in proper places, and to proper persons, which fools do not observe; but, without any manner of judgment or discretion, or regard to persons, places, and seasons, vainly thrust out their knowledge, and so proclaim their folly. The Syriac version is,

``in the heart of fools it shall not be known;''

it has no place there.

Proverbs 14:33 In-Context

31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

32 When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God.

33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.

35 A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant arouses his fury.

Cross References

• 1. Proverbs 2:6-10

Footnotes

• [a]. Hebrew; Septuagint and Syriac "discerning / but in the heart of fools she is not known"