Proverbs 17:28

Modern

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

Traditional

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

Literal

Even a fool keeping silent is considered wise, one shutting his lips discerning.

Latin

Stultus quoque, si tacuerit, sapiens reputabitur, et si compresserit labia sua, intelligens.

Hebrew

English

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

Theme notes and profiles

Job 13:5
If only you would remain silent; for that would be your wisdom!
Proverbs 15:2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly.
Ecclesiastes 10:14
Yet the fool multiplies words. No one knows what is coming, and who can tell him what will come after him?
Ecclesiastes 5:3
As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words.
Ecclesiastes 10:3
Even as the fool walks along the road, his sense is lacking, and he shows everyone that he is a fool.