Proverbs 14:8

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.

Proverbs 14:8 in Other Translations

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.

8 The prudent understand where they are going, but fools deceive themselves.

8 The wisdom of the wise keeps life on track; the foolishness of fools lands them in the ditch.

8 The sensible man's wisdom is to consider his way, but the stupidity of fools deceives [them].

Proverbs 14:8 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 14:8

The wisdom of the prudent [is] to understand his way
The way of his calling, in which he should abide, and how to manage it in the best manner; the way of his duty, that he may walk inoffensively both towards God and men; and the way of life and salvation, which is by Jesus Christ, which to understand and to walk in is the highest wisdom and prudence; but the folly of fools [is] deceit:
or "the wisdom of fools", which the opposition requires, and is meant, and is what the Holy Ghost calls "folly", as elsewhere, ( 1 Corinthians 3:19 ) ; this is itself "deceit"; it is science, falsely so called; it lies in tricking and deceiving; and the issue of it is, not only the deceiving of others, but themselves also: such is the folly of the man of sin and followers, which lies in deceiving the inhabitants of the earth with their sorceries and superstitions, with their lying wonders and miracles; see ( 2 Thessalonians 2:10 ) ( Revelation 13:14 ) ( 18:23 ) .

Proverbs 14:8 In-Context

6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

7 Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.

9 Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

10 Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy.

Cross References

• 1. ver 15; Proverbs 15:28; Proverbs 21:29
• 2. ver 24