and discerning when he holds his tongue
Discernment is the ability to judge well, and this phrase implies that restraint in speech is a sign of discernment. In the historical context of the Bible, discernment was a key attribute of leaders and prophets, who were expected to speak wisely and at the right time. The connection to other scriptures, such as Proverbs 10:19, which states, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise," reinforces the idea that careful speech is a mark of wisdom. This principle is also seen in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of words and their impact (Matthew 12:36-37). The ability to hold one's tongue is a reflection of inner strength and self-control, qualities that are esteemed throughout the Bible.

The verse opens by admitting that fools exist—people who live without reverence for God (Proverbs 1:7; 10:14). Scripture never flatters such a person, yet here even this unlikely candidate is given an unexpected opportunity. God’s Word is reminding us that no one is beyond benefiting from simple obedience.

• Our reputation often forms from what others hear us say.

• Proverbs 14:33 notes, “Wisdom rests in the heart of the discerning,” but it also hints that wisdom can be recognized even among fools when they act wisely.

• When a normally foolish person suddenly restrains himself, onlookers perceive a change. It is a practical illustration of Matthew 5:16—good behavior shines.

Silence is not emptiness; it is purposeful restraint.

• Proverbs 10:19 warns, “When words are many, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.”

• James 1:19 counsels, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”

• The fool’s path is paved with impulsive speech, yet a closed mouth cuts off that supply line of sin.

When silence replaces rash talk, people assume reflection has occurred.

• Job 13:5 quips, “If only you would be silent; for you, that would be wisdom!”

• Ecclesiastes 5:2 likewise urges thoughtful silence before God, implying discernment.

• By pausing, the fool appears to weigh words, giving the impression of insight he does not actually possess—showing how powerful self-control can be.

Holding the tongue is an intentional, ongoing choice, not a momentary hush.

• Proverbs 17:27, the verse immediately before our text, connects controlled speech with knowledge.

• Psalm 141:3 prays, “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.”

• James 3:2–6 reminds us that mastering the tongue is evidence of maturity because “the tongue is a fire.” Restraining that fire protects relationships, testimonies, and personal integrity.

Proverbs 17:28 teaches that silence can mask folly and project wisdom; more importantly, it shows that controlled speech is itself a mark of godly wisdom. By choosing thoughtful quietness over impulsive words, anyone—even a habitual fool—can avoid sin, gain respect, and reflect the character of the One who “restrains His anger” (Nahum 1:3). Wise believers therefore guard their tongues, speak sparingly, and let their lives, not their chatter, testify to the truth.

Πᾶς τις ἀπαίδευτος φρονιμώτατος ἐστὶ σιωπῶν. Cato, 'Dist.,' 1:3 -

"Virtutem primam esse puta compescere linguam;
Proximus ille Deo qui scit ratione tacere." Talmud, "Silence becomes the wise, much more feels." The Dutch have appropriated this maxim, "Zweigen de dwazen zij waren wijs, .... Were fools silent, they would pass for wise." "Si tacuisses, philosophus mansisses." "Silence," says the Sanskrit gnome, "is the ornament of the ignorant." "Talking comes by nature," say the Germans, "silence of understanding." The LXX. gives a different turn to the first clause: "A foolish man inquiring of wisdom will have wisdom imputed to him;" the expressed desire of knowledge will be taken as a proof of intelligence. The second clause is coordinate with the former. He that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding; Revised Version, when he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent; Septuagint, "A man making himself dumb will seem to be prudent." Theophrastus is said to have thus addressed a guest who was very silent at table: "If you are a fool, you act wisely; if you are wise, you act foolishly." "Let every man," says St. James (James 1:19), "be swift to hear, slow to speak."

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