Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. New Living Translation Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. English Standard Version The wise lay up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool brings ruin near. Berean Standard Bible The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool invites destruction. King James Bible Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. New King James Version Wise people store up knowledge, But the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. New American Standard Bible Wise people store up knowledge, But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand. NASB 1995 Wise men store up knowledge, But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand. NASB 1977 Wise men store up knowledge, But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand. Legacy Standard Bible Wise men store up knowledge, But the mouth of the ignorant fool draws ruin near. Amplified Bible Wise men store up and treasure knowledge [in mind and heart], But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand. Christian Standard Bible The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool hastens destruction. Holman Christian Standard Bible The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool hastens destruction. American Standard Version Wise men lay up knowledge; But the mouth of the foolish is a present destruction. Contemporary English Version If you have good sense, you will learn all you can, but foolish talk will soon destroy you. English Revised Version Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is a present destruction. GOD'S WORD® Translation Those who are wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a stubborn fool invites ruin. Good News Translation The wise get all the knowledge they can, but when fools speak, trouble is not far off. International Standard Version Those who are wise store up knowledge, but when the fool speaks, destruction is near. NET Bible Those who are wise store up knowledge, but foolish speech leads to imminent destruction. New Heart English Bible Wise men lay up knowledge, but the mouth of the foolish is near ruin. Webster's Bible Translation Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThe wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool invites destruction. World English Bible Wise men lay up knowledge, but the mouth of the foolish is near ruin. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionThe wise lay up knowledge, and the mouth of a fool [is] near ruin. Young's Literal Translation The wise lay up knowledge, and the mouth of a fool is near ruin. Smith's Literal Translation The wise shall hide knowledge: and the mouth of the foolish drew near destruction. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleWise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the fool is next to confusion. Catholic Public Domain Version The wise store away knowledge. But the mouth of the foolish is a neighbor to confusion. New American Bible The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool is imminent ruin. New Revised Standard Version The wise lay up knowledge, but the babbling of a fool brings ruin near. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleWise men conceal knowledge; but a hasty mouth is near destruction. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated The wise will conceal knowledge and the mouth of the hasty is near ruin. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Wise men lay up knowledge; But the mouth of the foolish is an imminent ruin. Brenton Septuagint Translation The wise will hide discretion; but the mouth of the hasty draws near to ruin. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Solomon's Proverbs: The Wise Son…13Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment. 14The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool invites destruction. 15The wealth of the rich man is his fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor.… Cross References James 1:19 My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, Proverbs 13:3 He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin. Proverbs 18:7 A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul. Ecclesiastes 10:12-14 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? Matthew 12:36-37 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.” Proverbs 15:2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. Proverbs 21:23 He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress. Ephesians 4:29 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. Proverbs 12:23 A shrewd man keeps his knowledge to himself, but a foolish heart proclaims its folly. Proverbs 17:27-28 A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue. Colossians 4:6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Proverbs 29:11 A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back. James 3:2-6 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. / When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal. / Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined. ... Proverbs 11:12 Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent. 1 Peter 3:10 For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. Treasury of Scripture Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. lay Proverbs 1:5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: Proverbs 9:9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. Proverbs 18:1,15 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom… the mouth Proverbs 10:8,10 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall… Proverbs 13:3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. Proverbs 18:7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. Jump to Previous Babbling Destruction Fool Foolish Hand Imminent Invites Lay Mouth Present Ruin Store Stored WiseJump to Next Babbling Destruction Fool Foolish Hand Imminent Invites Lay Mouth Present Ruin Store Stored WiseProverbs 10 1. Proverbs of Solomon: observations of moral virtues, and their contrary vicesThe wise store up knowledge This phrase emphasizes the value of wisdom and knowledge in the life of a believer. In biblical context, wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7) and is considered a treasure (Proverbs 2:4). The act of storing up knowledge suggests a deliberate and ongoing effort to learn and understand God's ways, akin to storing treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). Historically, the ancient Near Eastern cultures valued wisdom literature, and the Israelites were no exception, often equating wisdom with righteousness and moral living. This phrase also connects to the parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27), where the wise man builds his house on the rock, symbolizing a life founded on the teachings of Christ. but the mouth of the fool invites destruction Persons / Places / Events 1. Solomon- Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs are a collection of wise sayings meant to instruct and guide. 2. Wise Individuals - In the context of this verse, wise individuals are those who value and accumulate knowledge, understanding its importance for living a righteous life. 3. Fools - Fools, in this context, are those who speak recklessly without understanding, leading to their own downfall. 4. Ancient Israel - The cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where wisdom literature was highly valued and seen as a guide for moral and ethical living. 5. The Community of Believers - The intended audience for the teachings of Proverbs, who are encouraged to seek wisdom and live according to God's principles. Teaching Points Value of KnowledgeThe wise understand the importance of accumulating knowledge, not just for personal gain but for the benefit of others and the glory of God. Guarding Our Speech Our words have power. The wise are cautious with their speech, understanding that reckless words can lead to destruction. Pursuit of Wisdom Wisdom is not just intellectual but practical, involving the application of knowledge in everyday life. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom through prayer, study, and reflection. Consequences of Foolishness Foolishness often manifests in careless speech, which can lead to personal and communal harm. Recognizing this helps believers avoid such pitfalls. Community Impact The accumulation of knowledge and wise speech contributes positively to the community, fostering an environment of growth and understanding. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 10:14?2. How can we practically "store up knowledge" in our daily lives? 3. What are the consequences of "the mouth of a fool" in Proverbs 10:14? 4. How does Proverbs 10:14 connect with James 1:19 about listening and speaking? 5. In what ways can we avoid "ruin" through wise speech? 6. How can Proverbs 10:14 guide our conversations in challenging situations? 7. What does Proverbs 10:14 teach about the value of knowledge versus foolishness? 8. How does Proverbs 10:14 reflect the importance of wisdom in daily life? 9. In what ways does Proverbs 10:14 challenge modern views on knowledge and wisdom? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 10? 11. What does 'guard your heart' mean? 12. How does studying enhance spiritual understanding and wisdom? 13. Proverbs 9:10 asserts 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.' How does this claim align with secular approaches to wisdom and knowledge that require no fear of a deity? 14. Proverbs 9:6 urges abandoning foolishness to truly live. How can 'foolishness' be objectively defined or measured in a modern, evidence-based society? What Does Proverbs 10:14 Mean The wise store up knowledge• Scripture plainly states, “The wise store up knowledge” (Proverbs 10:14). Storing implies intentionally gathering and safeguarding truth, much like carefully placing valuables in a secure place (cf. Proverbs 18:15; Proverbs 9:9). • The wise value God’s Word as absolute truth (Psalm 19:7-10) and hide it in their hearts (Psalm 119:11). • Practical ways the wise “store up” include: – Daily reading and memorizing Scripture (Colossians 3:16). – Listening more than speaking so they can learn (Proverbs 1:5; James 1:19). – Applying what they learn, strengthening spiritual discernment (Hebrews 5:14). • The result is a reservoir of guidance ready for any situation (2 Timothy 2:15). but the mouth of the fool • “But” introduces a sharp contrast: the fool is defined not by lack of information but by reckless speech (Proverbs 12:23; Ecclesiastes 10:12-13). • A fool’s mouth gushes words without restraint (Proverbs 15:2). He flaunts opinions, ignores correction, and neglects the Word that could have guided him (Proverbs 1:7). • Scripture warns that such unguarded talk exposes inner corruption (Matthew 12:34) and reveals a heart devoid of wisdom. invites destruction • The fool’s uncontrolled tongue “invites destruction” (Proverbs 10:14). He opens the door wide for ruin to enter his life (Proverbs 13:3; 18:7). • Consequences appear in at least three arenas: – Personal: careless words alienate friends and family, bringing loneliness (Proverbs 17:9). – Temporal: rash statements can spark conflict, legal trouble, or financial loss (Proverbs 21:23). – Eternal: every idle word will be judged (Matthew 12:36), and persistent folly reaps corruption (Galatians 6:7-8). • Destruction is not accidental; the fool “invites” it—his words actively summon judgment (James 3:6). summary Proverbs 10:14 pictures two contrasting paths. The wise treat God’s inerrant Word as treasure, quietly gathering and guarding it so they are equipped for godly living. The fool, however, spews reckless speech, rejecting the safety that stored-up truth provides and thereby ushering in his own downfall. Our choice is clear: fill the heart with Scripture, speak with restraint, and enjoy the protection wisdom affords. (14) The mouth of the foolish is near destruction--i.e., is a near, ever-threatening calamity; one never knows what awkward or dangerous thing he will not say next: whereas wise men store up knowledge, and bring it forth as it is wanted (Matthew 13:52).Verse 14. - Lay up knowledge; like a treasure, for use on proper occasions (Proverbs 12:23; Proverbs 14:33; comp. Matthew 7:6; Matthew 13:52). Is near destruction. "Near" may be an adjective, equivalent to "imminent," "ever-threatening." The versions are proximum est and ἐγγίζει. The foolish are always uttering carelessly what may bring trouble on themselves and others.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew The wiseחֲכָמִ֥ים (ḥă·ḵā·mîm) Adjective - masculine plural Strong's 2450: Wise store up יִצְפְּנוּ־ (yiṣ·pə·nū-) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural Strong's 6845: To hide, to hoard, reserve, to deny, to protect, to lurk knowledge, דָ֑עַת (ḏā·‘aṯ) Noun - feminine singular Strong's 1847: Knowledge but the mouth וּפִֽי־ (ū·p̄î-) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 6310: The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to of the fool אֱ֝וִיל (’ĕ·wîl) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 191: Foolish invites קְרֹבָֽה׃ (qə·rō·ḇāh) Adjective - feminine singular Strong's 7138: Near destruction. מְחִתָּ֥ה (mə·ḥit·tāh) Noun - feminine singular Strong's 4288: A dissolution, a ruin, consternation Links Proverbs 10:14 NIVProverbs 10:14 NLT Proverbs 10:14 ESV Proverbs 10:14 NASB Proverbs 10:14 KJV Proverbs 10:14 BibleApps.com Proverbs 10:14 Biblia Paralela Proverbs 10:14 Chinese Bible Proverbs 10:14 French Bible Proverbs 10:14 Catholic Bible OT Poetry: Proverbs 10:14 Wise men lay up knowledge (Prov. 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