CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/17-28.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/20_Pro_17_28.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 17:28 - Better a Dry Morsel in Quietness" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/proverbs/17-28.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/proverbs/17-28.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/proverbs/">Proverbs</a> > <a href="/proverbs/17.htm">Chapter 17</a> > Verse 28</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad8.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm" title="Proverbs 17:27">◄</a> Proverbs 17:28 <a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm" title="Proverbs 18:1">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/17.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/17.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/17.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/17.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/17.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/17.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: <i>and</i> he that shutteth his lips <i>is esteemed</i> a man of understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/17.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; <i>When</i> he shuts his lips, <i>he is considered</i> perceptive.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/17.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is <i>considered</i> prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/17.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/17.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is <i>counted</i> prudent. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/17.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Even an ignorant fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is <i>considered</i> understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/17.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Even a [callous, arrogant] fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips he is regarded as sensible (prudent, discreet) <i>and</i> a man of understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/17.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent — discerning, when he seals his lips.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/17.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent, discerning when he seals his lips. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/17.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise; When he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/17.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Even fools seem smart when they are quiet. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/17.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: when he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/17.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Even a stubborn fool is thought to be wise if he keeps silent. He is considered intelligent if he keeps his lips sealed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/17.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />After all, even fools may be thought wise and intelligent if they stay quiet and keep their mouths shut. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/17.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Even a fool is thought to be wise when he remains silent; he is thought to be prudent when he keeps his mouth shut.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/17.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool who remains silent is considered wise, and the one who holds his tongue is deemed discerning. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/17.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/17.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.<div class="vheading2"><b>Majority Text Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/17.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/17.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/17.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Even a fool keeping silence is reckoned wise, "" He who is shutting his lips [seems] intelligent!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/17.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Even a fool keeping silence is reckoned wise, He who is shutting his lips intelligent!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/17.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Also the foolish one being silent shall be thought wise: and he shutting his lips, understanding.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/17.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool, if he will hold his peace shall be counted wise: and if he close his lips, a man of understanding. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/17.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />If he would remain silent, even the foolish would be considered wise, and if he closes his lips, intelligent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/17.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Even fools, keeping silent, are considered wise; if they keep their lips closed, intelligent. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/17.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Even fools who keep silent are considered wise; when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/17.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Even a fool when he holds his peace is considered wise; and he who shuts his lips is counted a man of understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/17.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />A madman who is silent is considered a wise person, and he that keeps his lips silent is considered intelligent. <div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/17.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise; And he that shutteth his lips is esteemed as a man of understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/17.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Wisdom shall be imputed to a fool who asks after wisdom: and he who holds his peace shall seem to be sensible.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/17-28.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=3504" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/17.htm">Better a Dry Morsel in Quietness</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">27</span>A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. <span class="reftext">28</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: gam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">Even</a> <a href="/hebrew/191.htm" title="191: ’ĕ·wîl (N-ms) -- Foolish. From an unused root; silly.">a fool</a> <a href="/hebrew/2803.htm" title="2803: yê·ḥā·šêḇ (V-Nifal-Imperf-3ms) -- To think, account. ">is considered</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: ḥā·ḵām (Adj-ms) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">wise</a> <a href="/hebrew/2790.htm" title="2790: ma·ḥă·rîš (V-Hifil-Prtcpl-ms) -- To cut in, engrave, plow, devise.">if he keeps silent,</a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: nā·ḇō·wn (V-Nifal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">and discerning</a> <a href="/hebrew/331.htm" title="331: ’ō·ṭêm (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To shut, shut up. A primitive root; to close; by analology to contract.">when he holds</a> <a href="/hebrew/8193.htm" title="8193: śə·p̄ā·ṯāw (N-fdc:: 3ms) -- Or sepheth; probably from caphah or shaphah through the idea of termination; the lip; by implication, language; by analogy, a margin.">his tongue.</a> </span><div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a></span><br />My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-3.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:3</a></span><br />As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 10:12-14</a></span><br />The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, but the lips of a fool consume him. / The beginning of his talk is folly, and the end of his speech is evil madness. / Yet the fool multiplies words. No one knows what is coming, and who can tell him what will come after him?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/13-5.htm">Job 13:5</a></span><br />If only you would remain silent; for that would be your wisdom!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19</a></span><br />When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/11-12.htm">Proverbs 11:12</a></span><br />Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a></span><br />The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/18-13.htm">Proverbs 18:13</a></span><br />He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-23.htm">Proverbs 21:23</a></span><br />He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a></span><br />But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. / For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2</a></span><br />We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. For Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/141-3.htm">Psalm 141:3</a></span><br />Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a></span><br />For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/29-11.htm">Proverbs 29:11</a></span><br />A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise: and he that shuts his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a></b></br> The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/13-5.htm">Job 13:5</a></b></br> O that ye would altogether hold your peace! and it should be your wisdom.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-3.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:3</a></b></br> For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice <i>is known</i> by multitude of words.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/job/7-5.htm">Closes</a> <a href="/psalms/119-59.htm">Considered</a> <a href="/psalms/141-2.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/psalms/106-31.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-64.htm">Deemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-24.htm">Discerning</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-9.htm">Esteemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-24.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-25.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-12.htm">Holdeth</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-26.htm">Holds</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-24.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-3.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-24.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-4.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-1.htm">Peace</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-21.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-1.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/psalms/119-59.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-30.htm">Shut</a> <a href="/psalms/107-42.htm">Shuts</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-30.htm">Shutteth</a> <a href="/psalms/58-4.htm">Shutting</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-12.htm">Silence</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-12.htm">Silent</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-28.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-20.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-10.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/21-13.htm">Closes</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-32.htm">Considered</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-14.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/ezekiel/18-20.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/isaiah/32-15.htm">Deemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-15.htm">Discerning</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-1.htm">Esteemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-2.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-2.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-5.htm">Holdeth</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-11.htm">Holds</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-15.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-8.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-6.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-9.htm">Peace</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-15.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-9.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-7.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-7.htm">Shut</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-13.htm">Shuts</a> <a href="/lamentations/3-8.htm">Shutteth</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-13.htm">Shutting</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-7.htm">Silence</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-7.htm">Silent</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-25.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-2.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-15.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 17</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/17-1.htm">Contrasts between the Righteous and the Wicked</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/17.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/17.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent</b><br>This phrase highlights the value of silence and self-control. In biblical times, wisdom was highly esteemed, and the ability to remain silent was often associated with understanding and maturity. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on speech, as words were seen as powerful and influential. This proverb suggests that even those lacking wisdom can appear wise by choosing silence over foolish speech. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as <a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a>, which advises believers to be "quick to listen, slow to speak." The idea of silence as a virtue is also seen in the life of Jesus Christ, who often chose silence in the face of accusations (<a href="/matthew/26-63.htm">Matthew 26:63</a>).<p><b>and discerning when he holds his tongue</b><br>Discernment is the ability to judge well, and this phrase implies that restraint in speech is a sign of discernment. In the historical context of the Bible, discernment was a key attribute of leaders and prophets, who were expected to speak wisely and at the right time. The connection to other scriptures, such as <a href="/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19</a>, which states, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise," reinforces the idea that careful speech is a mark of wisdom. This principle is also seen in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of words and their impact (<a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a>). The ability to hold one's tongue is a reflection of inner strength and self-control, qualities that are esteemed throughout the Bible.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and godly living are captured in the book of Proverbs.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/f/fools.htm">Fools</a></b><br>In the context of Proverbs, a fool is someone who lacks wisdom and understanding, often characterized by rashness and a lack of self-control.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wise_and_discerning_individuals.htm">Wise and Discerning Individuals</a></b><br>These are people who exhibit wisdom and understanding, often through their ability to listen and speak thoughtfully.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_silence.htm">The Value of Silence</a></b><br>Silence can be a powerful tool in demonstrating wisdom. By choosing not to speak, we can avoid unnecessary conflict and misunderstanding.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perception_of_wisdom.htm">Perception of Wisdom</a></b><br>Even those who may lack understanding can be perceived as wise if they practice restraint in their speech. This highlights the importance of self-control in communication.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_listening.htm">The Power of Listening</a></b><br>Listening more and speaking less allows us to gain better understanding and insight, which are key components of wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guarding_our_words.htm">Guarding Our Words</a></b><br>Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Being mindful of what we say can prevent harm and promote peace.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reflecting_christ_in_our_speech.htm">Reflecting Christ in Our Speech</a></b><br>As Christians, our speech should reflect the character of Christ. By being thoughtful and measured in our words, we can be a testimony to others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_17.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 17</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_universal_salvation's_meaning.htm">Is trusting your feelings a wise decision?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_the_gospel_of_jesus'_wife.htm">What role does silence play in the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_defines_a_biblical_proverb.htm">What defines a biblical proverb?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what's_silence's_role_in_the_bible.htm">What role does silence play in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/17.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 28.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is</span> <span class="cmt_word">counted wise.</span> Not betraying his ignorance and incapacity by words, a foolish man is credited with possessing sense (comp. <a href="/job/13-5.htm">Job 13:5</a>). Proverbs to this effect are found in all languages. Thus the Greek - <p><span class="greek">Πᾶς τις ἀπαίδευτος φρονιμώτατος ἐστὶ σιωπῶν</span>. Cato, 'Dist.,' 1:3 - <p><span class="foreign">"Virtutem primam esse puta compescere linguam;<br />Proximus ille Deo qui scit ratione tacere."</span> Talmud, "Silence becomes the wise, much more feels." The Dutch have appropriated this maxim, "Zweigen de dwazen zij waren wijs, .... Were fools silent, they would pass for wise." "Si tacuisses, philosophus mansisses." "Silence," says the Sanskrit gnome, "is the ornament of the ignorant." "Talking comes by nature," say the Germans, "silence of understanding." The LXX. gives a different turn to the first clause: "A foolish man inquiring of wisdom will have wisdom imputed to him;" the expressed desire of knowledge will be taken as a proof of intelligence. The second clause is coordinate with the former. <span class="cmt_word">He that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding;</span> Revised Version, <span class="accented">when he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent</span>; Septuagint, "A man making himself dumb will seem to be prudent." Theophrastus is said to have thus addressed a guest who was very silent at table: "If you are a fool, you act wisely; if you are wise, you act foolishly." "Let every man," says St. James (<a href="/james/1-19.htm">James 1:19</a>), "be swift to hear, slow to speak." <p> . . . <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/17-28.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Even</span><br /><span class="heb">גַּ֤ם</span> <span class="translit">(gam)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> </span><span class="str2">Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and</span><br /><br /><span class="word">a fool</span><br /><span class="heb">אֱוִ֣יל</span> <span class="translit">(’ĕ·wîl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_191.htm">Strong's 191: </a> </span><span class="str2">Foolish</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is considered</span><br /><span class="heb">יֵחָשֵׁ֑ב</span> <span class="translit">(yê·ḥā·šêḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2803.htm">Strong's 2803: </a> </span><span class="str2">To think, account</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wise</span><br /><span class="heb">חָכָ֣ם</span> <span class="translit">(ḥā·ḵām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2450.htm">Strong's 2450: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wise</span><br /><br /><span class="word">if he keeps silent,</span><br /><span class="heb">מַ֭חֲרִישׁ</span> <span class="translit">(ma·ḥă·rîš)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2790.htm">Strong's 2790: </a> </span><span class="str2">To cut in, engrave, plow, devise</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[and] discerning</span><br /><span class="heb">נָבֽוֹן׃</span> <span class="translit">(nā·ḇō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> </span><span class="str2">To separate mentally, understand</span><br /><br /><span class="word">when he holds</span><br /><span class="heb">אֹטֵ֖ם</span> <span class="translit">(’ō·ṭêm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_331.htm">Strong's 331: </a> </span><span class="str2">To close, to contract</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his tongue.</span><br /><span class="heb">שְׂפָתָ֣יו</span> <span class="translit">(śə·p̄ā·ṯāw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - fdc | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8193.htm">Strong's 8193: </a> </span><span class="str2">The lip, language, a margin</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/17-28.htm">Proverbs 17:28 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/17-28.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool when he keeps silent (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 17:27"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 17:27" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 18:1"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 18:1" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>