Proverbs 12:15

15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

Proverbs 12:15 in Other Translations

KJV
15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
ESV
15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.
NLT
15 Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.
MSG
15 Fools are headstrong and do what they like; wise people take advice.
CSB
15 A fool's way is right in his own eyes, but whoever listens to counsel is wise.

Proverbs 12:15 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 12:15

The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes
Whether it be the way of open profaneness, or self-righteousness, it appears to him to be the right way; it seems to him a very plain one, and he finds it pleasant; and, trusting to carnal sense, corrupt reason, and a false judgment, and having a high opinion of himself and his own knowledge, never asks after the right way, nor takes the advice of others; but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise;
that asks advice and takes it of such who are men of age and experience, men of longer standing, and are wiser than himself; who consults the word of God about the right way of walk, worship, and salvation, and makes the testimonies of God the men of his counsel, which are able to make him wise unto salvation; who hearkens to the counsel of Gospel ministers, and obeys it; and especially to Jesus Christ the wonderful Counsellor, and to the advice he gives, ( Revelation 3:18 ) ; and who not only hears his words, but does them; such an one is a wise man, ( Matthew 7:24 Matthew 7:25 ) .

Proverbs 12:15 In-Context

13 Evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk, and so the innocent escape trouble.
14 From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.
15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
16 Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.
17 An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.

Cross References 2

  • 1. Proverbs 14:12; Proverbs 16:2,25; Luke 18:11
  • 2. S Proverbs 9:7-9; Proverbs 19:20
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