Proverbs 17:28

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

King James Version

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Other Translations for Proverbs 17:28

BSB

Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.

AKJV

Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise: and he that shuts his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

CPDV

If he would remain silent, even the foolish would be considered wise, and if he closes his lips, intelligent.

ERV

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: when he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent.

NHEB

Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.

SMT

Also the foolish one being silent shall be thought wise: and he shutting his lips, understanding.

Word Study (Strong’s) for Proverbs 17:28

EvenafoolH191Adjective MasculinewhenheholdethhispeaceH2790VerbiscountedH2803Verb wiseH2450AdjectiveandhethatshuttethH331VerbhislipsH8193Noun FeminineisesteemedamanofunderstandingH995Verb

Commentary for Proverbs 17:28

Please note: this is not Scripture

These study resources are provided for informational purposes only. They reflect human interpretation, are subject to human error, and should not be considered divinely inspired or authoritative.

Barnes’ Notes Classic commentary from Albert Barnes Matthew Henry Commentary Classic commentary from Matthew Henry

Overview of Proverbs 17:28

Summary

Silence paradoxically suggests personal wisdom

Event

Ironic observation about silence

Estimated Time Period

c. 950 BC