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 26:16 The slacker is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/26-16.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/20_Pro_26_16.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 26:16 - Similitudes and Instructions" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="The slacker is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly." /><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/26-16.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/26-16.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/26.htm">Chapter 26</a> > Verse 16</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="/ad16.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/26-15.htm" title="Proverbs 26:15">◄</a> Proverbs 26:16 <a href="/proverbs/26-17.htm" title="Proverbs 26:17">►</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/26.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/26.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven people who answer discreetly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/26.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Lazy people consider themselves smarter than seven wise counselors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/26.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/26.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />The slacker is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/26.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard <i>is</i> wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/26.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />The lazy <i>man is</i> wiser in his own eyes Than seven men who can answer sensibly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/26.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />A lazy one is wiser in his own eyes Than seven <i>people</i> who can give a discreet answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/26.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes Than seven men who can give a discreet answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/26.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes Than seven men who can give a discreet answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/26.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes Than seven men who can respond with a discreet answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/26.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />The lazy person is wiser in his own eyes Than seven [sensible] men who can give a discreet answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/26.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />In his own eyes, a slacker is wiser than seven who can answer sensibly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/26.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />In his own eyes, a slacker is wiser than seven men who can answer sensibly. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/26.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit Than seven men that can render a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/26.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />A lazy person says, "I am smarter than everyone else." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/26.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/26.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />A lazy person thinks he is wiser than seven people who give a sensible answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/26.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />A lazy person will think he is smarter than seven men who can give good reasons for their opinions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/26.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />The lazy person is wiser in his own opinion than seven men who can give an appropriate response.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/26.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />The slacker is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/26.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own estimation than seven people who respond with good sense. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/26.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer with discretion.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/26.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/26.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer with discretion. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/26.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Wiser [is] the slothful in his own eyes, "" Than seven [men] returning a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/26.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Wiser is the slothful in his own eyes, Than seven men returning a reason.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/26.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />The slothful one is wise in his eyes more than seven turning back a reason.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/26.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit, than seven men that speak sentences. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/26.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />The lazy one seems wiser to himself than seven men speaking judgments.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/26.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />In their own eyes sluggards are wiser than seven who answer with good judgment. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/26.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The lazy person is wiser in self-esteem than seven who can answer discreetly.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/26.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men with good reasoning.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/26.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />The lazy one is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who make sense.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/26.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes Than seven men that give wise answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/26.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />A sluggard seems to himself wiser than one who most satisfactorily brings back a message.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/26-16.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=5387" 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/26.htm">Similitudes and Instructions</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">15</span>The slacker buries his hand in the dish; it wearies him to bring it back to his mouth. <span class="reftext">16</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/6102.htm" title="6102: ‘ā·ṣêl (Adj-ms) -- Sluggish, lazy. From atsal; indolent.">The slacker</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: ḥā·ḵām (Adj-ms) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">is wiser</a> <a href="/hebrew/5869.htm" title="5869: bə·‘ê·nāw (Prep-b:: N-cdc:: 3ms) -- An eye. Probably a primitive word; an eye; by analogy, a fountain.">in his own eyes</a> <a href="/hebrew/7651.htm" title="7651: miš·šiḇ·‘āh (Prep-m:: Number-ms) -- Or shibrah; from shaba'; a primitive cardinal number; seven; also seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number.">than seven men</a> <a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: mə·šî·ḇê (V-Hifil-Prtcpl-mpc) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">who answer</a> <a href="/hebrew/2940.htm" title="2940: ṭā·‘am (N-ms) -- Taste, judgment. From ta'am; properly, a taste, i.e. perception; by implication, intelligence; transitively, a mandate.">discreetly.</a> </span><span class="reftext">17</span>Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own.…<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="/proverbs/12-15.htm">Proverbs 12:15</a></span><br />The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/14-12.htm">Proverbs 14:12</a></span><br />There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-2.htm">Proverbs 21:2</a></span><br />All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-7.htm">Proverbs 3:7</a></span><br />Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/18-2.htm">Proverbs 18:2</a></span><br />A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/28-26.htm">Proverbs 28:26</a></span><br />He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-3.htm">Ecclesiastes 10:3</a></span><br />Even as the fool walks along the road, his sense is lacking, and he shows everyone that he is a fool.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/5-21.htm">Isaiah 5:21</a></span><br />Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/8-8.htm">Jeremiah 8:8-9</a></span><br />How can you say, ‘We are wise, and the Law of the LORD is with us,’ when in fact the lying pen of the scribes has produced a deception? / The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what wisdom do they really have?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/1-22.htm">Romans 1:22</a></span><br />Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">1 Corinthians 3:18-19</a></span><br />Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise. / For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-22.htm">James 1:22</a></span><br />Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-13.htm">James 3:13-17</a></span><br />Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. / But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. / Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-26.htm">Matthew 7:26</a></span><br />But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/23-24.htm">Matthew 23:24</a></span><br />You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Proverbs 26:12</a></b></br> Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? <i>there is</i> more hope of a fool than of him.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/12-15.htm">Proverbs 12:15</a></b></br> The way of a fool <i>is</i> right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel <i>is</i> wise.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">1 Peter 3:15</a></b></br> But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and <i>be</i> ready always to <i>give</i> an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/26-11.htm">Able</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Conceit</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/26-14.htm">Discreet</a> <a href="/mark/12-34.htm">Discreetly</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-11.htm">Discretion</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-27.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-15.htm">Hater</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-3.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-29.htm">Render</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-26.htm">Returning</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Seems</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-16.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-15.htm">Slothful</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-15.htm">Sluggard</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-9.htm">Wiser</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-15.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/27-4.htm">Able</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-11.htm">Conceit</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-2.htm">Discreet</a> <a href="/mark/12-34.htm">Discreetly</a> <a href="/isaiah/28-26.htm">Discretion</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-20.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-6.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-24.htm">Hater</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-6.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/isaiah/2-4.htm">Render</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/1-6.htm">Returning</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-11.htm">Seems</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-25.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/matthew/25-26.htm">Slothful</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-6.htm">Sluggard</a> <a href="/proverbs/27-9.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-24.htm">Wiser</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-15.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 26</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-1.htm">observations about fools</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-13.htm">about sluggards</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/26-17.htm">and about contentious busybodies</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/26.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/26.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>The slacker is wiser in his own eyes</b><br>This phrase highlights the self-deception and pride often found in those who are lazy or unwilling to work. In biblical context, laziness is frequently condemned (<a href="/proverbs/6-6.htm">Proverbs 6:6-11</a>, <a href="/proverbs/24-30.htm">Proverbs 24:30-34</a>). The slacker's self-perception is skewed, as he believes himself to be wise despite his lack of diligence and productivity. This reflects the broader biblical theme of pride leading to downfall (<a href="/proverbs/16-18.htm">Proverbs 16:18</a>). The slacker's self-assessment contrasts with the biblical call to humility and reliance on God's wisdom (<a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a>).<p><b>than seven men who answer discreetly</b><br>The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection (<a href="/genesis/2-2.htm">Genesis 2:2-3</a>, <a href="/revelation/1-4.htm">Revelation 1:4</a>). Here, it suggests a group of individuals who possess true wisdom and discernment. These men are characterized by their ability to answer discreetly, implying thoughtfulness, prudence, and understanding. This contrasts sharply with the slacker's self-perceived wisdom. The discreet men embody the biblical ideal of wisdom, which is often associated with the fear of the Lord (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>) and is a key theme throughout the book of Proverbs. This phrase underscores the value of true wisdom and discernment over self-deception and pride.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_sluggard.htm">The Sluggard</a></b><br>A recurring character in Proverbs, representing laziness and a lack of diligence. The sluggard is often depicted as someone who avoids work and responsibility, preferring ease and comfort over effort and productivity.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/s/seven_men.htm">Seven Men</a></b><br>Symbolic of completeness or perfection in wisdom. In the context of this verse, these men represent those who possess discernment and the ability to provide wise counsel.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His insights into human behavior and the consequences of folly are central to the teachings in Proverbs.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_self-deception.htm">The Danger of Self-Deception</a></b><br>The sluggard's self-perception is skewed; he believes himself to be wise despite his lack of action. This serves as a warning against the danger of self-deception and the importance of self-awareness.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/v/value_of_wise_counsel.htm">Value of Wise Counsel</a></b><br>The verse contrasts the sluggard with those who answer discreetly, highlighting the value of seeking and heeding wise counsel. It encourages believers to surround themselves with godly advisors.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/d/diligence_as_a_virtue.htm">Diligence as a Virtue</a></b><br>Laziness is not just a personal flaw but a spiritual issue. Diligence is a virtue that reflects a commitment to stewardship and responsibility, aligning with God's design for work and productivity.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/h/humility_in_wisdom.htm">Humility in Wisdom</a></b><br>True wisdom is marked by humility and a willingness to learn from others. The sluggard's arrogance blinds him to his own shortcomings, while the wise are open to correction and growth.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_26.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 26</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_samaritanism's_belief.htm">What defines the pride of those who walk?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_proverbs_say_on_laziness.htm">What does Proverbs say about lazy people?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_proverbs_26_7_contradict_other_wisdom.htm">Proverbs 26:7: Does the idea of a proverb in a fool's mouth being 'useless' conflict with other Bible passages that suggest all wisdom is beneficial?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_are_the_seven_deadly_sins.htm">What are the seven deadly sins?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/26.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(16) <span class= "bld">Seven men.</span>--A round number. (Comp. <a href="/proverbs/26-25.htm" title="When he speaks fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.">Proverbs 26:25</a>; <a href="/proverbs/6-31.htm" title="But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.">Proverbs 6:31</a>; <a href="/proverbs/24-16.htm" title="For a just man falls seven times, and rises up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.">Proverbs 24:16</a>.)<p><span class= "bld">That can render a reason--</span><span class= "ital">i.e.</span>, give a sensible judgment on any matter submitted to them.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/26.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 16.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit.</span> The sluggard is here one who is too idle to think a matter out, and considers his own cursory view as sure to be right. He is one who deems study to be an unnecessary weariness of the flesh (<a href="/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12</a>), and flatters himself that he is quite able without it to give a satisfactory account of any question presented to him. <span class="cmt_word">Than seven men that can render a reason.</span> "Seven" is the number of completeness (comp. <a href="/proverbs/6-31.htm">Proverbs 6:31</a>; <a href="/proverbs/9-1.htm">Proverbs 9:1</a>; <a href="/proverbs/24-16.htm">Proverbs 24:16</a>). The idle fool sets more value by his own judgment than by the sense of any number of wise men. Revised Version margin, "that can answer discreetly," is perhaps nearer the Hebrew, which implies the being able to return a wise and proper answer to anything asked of them. The LXX. reading a little differently, renders, "Wiser seems a sluggard to himself than one who in satiety (<span class="greek">ἐν πλησμονῇ</span>) brings back a message." This is explained to mean that a sluggard thinks himself wise in not helping a neighbour with an errand or a message, though he would have probably been repaid with a good dinner for his kindness. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/26-16.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 sluggard</span><br /><span class="heb">עָצֵ֣ל</span> <span class="translit">(‘ā·ṣêl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6102.htm">Strong's 6102: </a> </span><span class="str2">Sluggish, lazy</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[is] wiser</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">in his own eyes</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּעֵינָ֑יו</span> <span class="translit">(bə·‘ê·nāw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - cdc | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5869.htm">Strong's 5869: </a> </span><span class="str2">An eye, a fountain</span><br /><br /><span class="word">than seven men</span><br /><span class="heb">מִ֝שִּׁבְעָ֗ה</span> <span class="translit">(miš·šiḇ·‘āh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Number - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7651.htm">Strong's 7651: </a> </span><span class="str2">Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite number</span><br /><br /><span class="word">who answer</span><br /><span class="heb">מְשִׁ֣יבֵי</span> <span class="translit">(mə·šî·ḇê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine plural construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> </span><span class="str2">To turn back, in, to retreat, again</span><br /><br /><span class="word">discreetly.</span><br /><span class="heb">טָֽעַם׃</span> <span class="translit">(ṭā·‘am)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2940.htm">Strong's 2940: </a> </span><span class="str2">A taste, perception, intelligence, a mandate</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/26-16.htm">Proverbs 26:16 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/26-16.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 26:16 The sluggard is wiser in his own (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/26-15.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 26:15"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 26:15" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/26-17.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 26:17"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 26:17" /></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>