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 14:3 The proud speech of a fool brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/14-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/20_Pro_14_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 14:3 - The Wise Woman" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="The proud speech of a fool brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them." /><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/14-3.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/14-3.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/14.htm">Chapter 14</a> > Verse 3</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="/ad3.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/14-2.htm" title="Proverbs 14:2">◄</a> Proverbs 14:3 <a href="/proverbs/14-4.htm" title="Proverbs 14:4">►</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/14.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/14.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A fool&#8217s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/14.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/14.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proud speech of a fool brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish <i>is</i> a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/14.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />In the mouth of a fool <i>is</i> a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/14.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for <i>his</i> back, But the lips of the wise will protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for his back, But the lips of the wise will protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for <i>his</i> back, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/14.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />In the mouth of the ignorant fool is a rod of lofty pride, But the lips of the wise will keep them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/14.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of the [arrogant] fool [who rejects God] is a rod for his back, But the lips of the wise [when they speak with godly wisdom] will protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/14.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proud speech of a fool brings a rod of discipline, but the lips of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/14.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proud speech of a fool brings a rod of discipline, but the lips of the wise protect them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/14.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for his pride; But the lips of the wise shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/14.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Proud fools are punished for their stupid talk, but sensible talk can save your life. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/14.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/14.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Because of a stubborn fool's words a whip is lifted against him, but wise people are protected by their speech.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/14.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Proud fools talk too much; the words of the wise protect them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/14.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />What a fool says brings a rod to his back, but the words of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/14.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proud speech of a fool brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/14.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />In the speech of a fool is a rod for his back, but the words of the wise protect them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/14.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />The fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/14.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/14.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />The fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/14.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />A rod of pride [is] in the mouth of a fool, "" And the lips of the wise preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/14.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, And the lips of the wise preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/14.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />In the month of the foolish one a rod of pride: and the lips of the wise shall watch them.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/14.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of a fool is the rod of pride: but the lips of the wise preserve them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/14.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish, there is a rod of arrogance. But the lips of the wise guard them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/14.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of the fool is a rod for pride, but the lips of the wise preserve them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/14.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The talk of fools is a rod for their backs, but the lips of the wise preserve them.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/14.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is provocation and disgrace; but the lips of wise men shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/14.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Provocation and disgrace are in the mouth of the fool, and the lips of the wise will preserve them.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/14.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride; But the lips of the wise shall preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/14.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Out of the mouth of fools <i>comes</i> a rod of pride; but the lips of the wise preserve them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/14-3.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=2559" 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/14.htm">The Wise Woman</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">2</span>He who walks in uprightness fears the LORD, but the one who is devious in his ways despises Him. <span class="reftext">3</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1346.htm" title="1346: ga·’ă·wāh (N-fs) -- Majesty, pride. From ga'ah; arrogance or majesty; by implication, ornament.">The proud</a> <a href="/hebrew/6310.htm" title="6310: bə·p̄î- (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- Mouth. From pa'ah; the mouth, whether literal or figurative; specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially according to.">speech</a> <a href="/hebrew/191.htm" title="191: ’ĕ·wîl (N-ms) -- Foolish. From an unused root; silly.">of a fool</a> <a href="/hebrew/2415.htm" title="2415: ḥō·ṭer (N-msc) -- Branch or twig, a rod. From an unused root of uncertain signification; a twig.">brings a rod to his back,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8193.htm" title="8193: wə·śip̄·ṯê (Conj-w:: N-fdc) -- Or sepheth; probably from caphah or shaphah through the idea of termination; the lip; by implication, language; by analogy, a margin.">but the lips</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: ḥă·ḵā·mîm (Adj-mp) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">of the wise</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: tiš·mū·rêm (V-Qal-Imperf-3fs:: 3mp) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">protect them.</a> </span><span class="reftext">4</span>Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but an abundant harvest comes through the strength of the ox.…<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/3-5.htm">James 3:5-6</a></span><br />In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. / The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.<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="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a></span><br />Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a></span><br />If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Ephesians 4:29</a></span><br />Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.<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/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/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="/colossians/4-6.htm">Colossians 4:6</a></span><br />Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.<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/12-18.htm">Proverbs 12:18</a></span><br />Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a></span><br />He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.<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="/psalms/34-13.htm">Psalm 34:13</a></span><br />Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-24.htm">Proverbs 16:24</a></span><br />Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.</p><p class="hdg">the mouth</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/18-6.htm">Proverbs 18:6</a></b></br> A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/21-24.htm">Proverbs 21:24</a></b></br> Proud <i>and</i> haughty scorner <i>is</i> his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/22-8.htm">Proverbs 22:8</a></b></br> He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.</p><p class="hdg">but</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/12-6.htm">Proverbs 12:6</a></b></br> The words of the wicked <i>are</i> to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/10-9.htm">Romans 10:9,10</a></b></br> That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/revelation/3-10.htm">Revelation 3:10</a></b></br> Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/13-16.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-16.htm">Fool's</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-5.htm">Preserve</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-10.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-6.htm">Protect</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-24.htm">Rod</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-6.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-18.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/14-7.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-7.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-24.htm">Fool's</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-7.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-28.htm">Preserve</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-16.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-5.htm">Protect</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-30.htm">Rod</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-26.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-16.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 14</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">A wise woman builds her house</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/14.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/14.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>The proud speech of a fool brings a rod to his back</b><br>This phrase highlights the consequences of arrogance and foolishness. In biblical times, a "rod" was often used as a tool for discipline and correction, symbolizing the repercussions of one's actions. The fool, characterized by pride and lack of wisdom, invites punishment upon himself through his words. This concept is echoed in <a href="/proverbs/10-14.htm">Proverbs 10:14</a>, where the wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed high value on humility and wisdom, often associating pride with downfall, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/16-18.htm">Proverbs 16:18</a>, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."<p><b>but the lips of the wise protect them</b><br>In contrast, the wise are safeguarded by their prudent speech. Wisdom in the biblical sense is not merely intellectual but deeply connected to a reverence for God and understanding of His ways, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." The wise use their words carefully, avoiding the pitfalls that ensnare the foolish. This protection is not just from physical harm but also from social and spiritual consequences. The wisdom literature often emphasizes the power of words, as in <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a>, "The tongue has the power of life and death." The wise, therefore, are depicted as those who navigate life skillfully, aligning their speech with divine principles, which ultimately shields them from harm.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs often contrast the wise and the foolish.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/f/fool.htm">Fool</a></b><br>In the context of Proverbs, a fool is someone who rejects wisdom and instruction, often characterized by pride and reckless speech.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wise.htm">Wise</a></b><br>The wise are those who fear the Lord and live according to His principles, often characterized by humility and prudent speech.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/r/rod.htm">Rod</a></b><br>Symbolically represents discipline or punishment, often used in the context of correction for foolish behavior.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/s/speech.htm">Speech</a></b><br>Central to this proverb, speech is a powerful tool that can either lead to protection or punishment, depending on whether it is wise or foolish.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_words.htm">The Power of Words</a></b><br>Words have the power to build up or tear down. The speech of a fool can lead to their downfall, while wise words can offer protection and guidance.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_pride.htm">The Consequences of Pride</a></b><br>Prideful speech often leads to conflict and punishment. Humility in speech reflects wisdom and can prevent unnecessary strife.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_wisdom.htm">The Importance of Wisdom</a></b><br>Seeking wisdom and understanding is crucial for living a life that honors God. Wise speech is a reflection of a heart aligned with God's will.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guarding_our_speech.htm">Guarding Our Speech</a></b><br>As believers, we are called to be mindful of our words, ensuring they reflect the love and truth of Christ.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/d/discipline_and_correction.htm">Discipline and Correction</a></b><br>God's discipline, represented by the "rod," is a loving correction meant to guide us back to the path of wisdom.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_14.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 14</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_is_your_biblical_adversary.htm">What does the Bible say about road rage?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_is_'foolishness'_defined_today.htm">Proverbs 9:6 urges abandoning foolishness to truly live. How can “foolishness” be objectively defined or measured in a modern, evidence-based society? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_child_marriage.htm">What does Proverbs 1:7 mean by 'fools despise wisdom'?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/meaning_of_'persecuted_not_forsaken'.htm">How does wisdom lead to foolishness?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/14.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) <span class= "bld">In the mouth of the foolish </span>(self-willed) <span class= "bld">is a rod of pride.--</span>He has to smart for his ill-judged sayings; or, he punishes others with them. But this does not agree so well with what follows.<p><span class= "bld">But the lips of the wise shall preserve them </span>(the wise) from the difficulties into which the foolish come by their rash talk.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/14.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 3.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride.</span> <span class="hebrew">חֹטֶר</span> (<span class="accented">choter</span>), "rod," or "shoot," is found also in <a href="/isaiah/11-1.htm">Isaiah 11:1</a>. From the mouth of the arrogant fool proceeds a growth of vaunting and conceit, accompanied with insolence towards others, for which he is often chastised. So the tongue is compared to a sword (<span class="accented">e.g.</span> <a href="/psalms/57-4.htm">Psalm 57:4</a>; <a href="/psalms/64-3.htm">Psalm 64:3</a>; <a href="/jeremiah/18-18.htm">Jeremiah 18:18</a>; <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Revelation 1:16</a>. St. Gregory ('Mor. in Job.,' 24) applies this sentence to haughty preachers, who are anxious to appear superior to other people, and study more to chide and reprove than to encourage; "they know how to smite sharply, but not to sympathize with humility." Septuagint, "From the mouth of fools cometh a staff of insolence." The lips of the wise shall preserve them - the wise (<a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a>). These do not abuse speech to insult and injure others; and their words tend to conciliate others, and promote peace and good will (comp. <a href="/proverbs/12-6.htm">Proverbs 12:6, 18</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/14-3.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">The proud</span><br /><span class="heb">גַּאֲוָ֑ה</span> <span class="translit">(ga·’ă·wāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1346.htm">Strong's 1346: </a> </span><span class="str2">Arrogance, majesty, ornament</span><br /><br /><span class="word">speech</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּֽפִי־</span> <span class="translit">(bə·p̄î-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6310.htm">Strong's 6310: </a> </span><span class="str2">The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of a fool</span><br /><span class="heb">אֱ֭וִיל</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">brings a rod to his back,</span><br /><span class="heb">חֹ֣טֶר</span> <span class="translit">(ḥō·ṭer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2415.htm">Strong's 2415: </a> </span><span class="str2">Branch or twig, a rod</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but the lips</span><br /><span class="heb">וְשִׂפְתֵ֥י</span> <span class="translit">(wə·śip̄·ṯê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - fdc<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 /><br /><span class="word">of the wise</span><br /><span class="heb">חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים</span> <span class="translit">(ḥă·ḵā·mîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine plural<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">protect them.</span><br /><span class="heb">תִּשְׁמוּרֵֽם׃</span> <span class="translit">(tiš·mū·rêm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular | third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> </span><span class="str2">To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/14-3.htm">Proverbs 14:3 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/14-3.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 14:3 The fool's talk brings a rod (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/14-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 14:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/14-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 14:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:4" /></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>