Ecclesiastes 9:17

17 The words of wise [men are] heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.

Ecclesiastes 9:17 Meaning and Commentary

Ecclesiastes 9:17

The words of wise [men are] heard in quiet
That is, by some persons and at some times, though not by all persons and always; or they are to be heard, or should be heard, though they seldom be, even the words of wise men that are poor: these are to be heard quietly and patiently, without any tumult and contradiction; or should be heard, being delivered with a low and submissive voice, without any noise, or blustering pride, or passion, sedately and with great humility, submitting them to the judgment of others; which sense the comparison seems to require; more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools;
more than the noisy words of a foolish governor; or than the dictates of an imperious man, delivered in a clamorous and blustering way; by which he obtains authority among such fools as himself, who are influenced more by the pomp and noise of words than by the force of true wisdom and reason; but all right judges will give the preference to the former. The Targum interprets it of the silent prayer of the wise being received by the Lord, more than the clamour of the wicked.

Ecclesiastes 9:17 In-Context

15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

16 Then said I, wisdom [is] better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom [is] despised, and his words are not heard.

17 The words of wise [men are] heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.

18 Wisdom [is] better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.