Do not speak to a fool
This phrase advises against engaging in dialogue with someone characterized as a "fool." In biblical terms, a fool is not merely someone lacking intelligence but rather someone who rejects wisdom and moral instruction. The Hebrew word for fool, "kesil," often refers to a person who is morally deficient and resistant to correction. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on wisdom and understanding, often associating foolishness with spiritual and moral failure. Jesus, in the New Testament, also warns against casting pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6), which parallels this advice by suggesting that sacred truths should not be wasted on those who will not appreciate them.

for he will despise the wisdom of your words
The second part of the verse explains the rationale behind the initial command. A fool, as defined in the biblical context, is someone who not only lacks wisdom but actively scorns it. This reflects a heart attitude that is closed to instruction and correction. The historical context of Proverbs, attributed to Solomon, suggests a society where wisdom was highly esteemed, and the rejection of it was seen as a serious flaw. This rejection is not just a passive ignorance but an active disdain, which can be seen in other scriptures such as Proverbs 1:22, where fools delight in their mockery. The New Testament echoes this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 1:18, where the message of the cross is described as foolishness to those who are perishing. This highlights the spiritual blindness that prevents fools from recognizing the value of wisdom, which ultimately points to Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24).

1. Fool
In the context of Proverbs, a fool is someone who rejects wisdom and understanding, often characterized by a lack of moral and spiritual insight. The Hebrew word used here is (kesil), which implies someone who is obstinate and morally deficient.

2. Wisdom
This is a central theme in the book of Proverbs, representing divine insight and understanding that leads to righteous living. Wisdom is often personified and is seen as a guiding principle for a godly life.

3. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His teachings often contrast the wise and the foolish.Discernment in Communication
As believers, we must exercise discernment in choosing when and with whom to share wisdom. Not everyone is receptive, and we should be mindful of the potential futility in speaking to those who are obstinately foolish.

Value of Wisdom
Wisdom is precious and should be shared with those who are open to receiving it. We should seek to cultivate relationships with those who value and seek understanding.

Guarding Our Words
Our words have power and should be used wisely. Engaging in fruitless discussions with those who scorn wisdom can lead to frustration and conflict.

Patience and Prayer
Instead of engaging in futile arguments, we should pray for those who are resistant to wisdom, asking God to open their hearts and minds.

Reflecting Christ’s Example
Jesus often chose when to speak and when to remain silent, demonstrating wisdom in His interactions. We should strive to follow His example in our own lives.1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 23:9?

2. How can we discern when to "speak" or "not speak" to a fool?

3. What does Proverbs 23:9 teach about the value of wisdom in conversation?

4. How does Matthew 7:6 relate to Proverbs 23:9's advice on speaking?

5. In what ways can we avoid wasting wisdom on unreceptive individuals?

6. How can Proverbs 23:9 guide our interactions with difficult people today?

7. What does Proverbs 23:9 mean by "Do not speak to a fool"?

8. How does Proverbs 23:9 challenge our approach to sharing wisdom?

9. Why does Proverbs 23:9 advise against speaking to fools?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 23?

11. Proverbs 23:9 says not to speak to a fool; does this conflict with the New Testament’s call to share truth with everyone?

12. What does Proverbs 1:7 mean by 'fools despise wisdom'?

13. Proverbs 9:6 urges abandoning foolishness to truly live. How can 'foolishness' be objectively defined or measured in a modern, evidence-based society?

14. What does the Bible say about God's wisdom?Do not speak

• The instruction is straightforward: hold back from engaging in certain conversations. Proverbs 26:4 echoes this restraint: “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be like him.”

• Jesus applies the same wisdom in Matthew 7:6, urging His followers not to cast pearls before swine lest those pearls be trampled.

• Paul reinforces it in 2 Timothy 2:23, advising believers to “avoid foolish and ignorant controversies.”

• The point: silence can be the wisest response when words would be wasted or provoke strife.

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to a fool

• Scripture defines a fool as one who rejects the fear of the LORD (Proverbs 1:7) and is comfortable with reckless speech and actions (Proverbs 14:7).

• Psalm 14:1 describes the fool as saying in his heart, “There is no God,” spotlighting spiritual stubbornness rather than mere lack of intelligence.

• Engaging such a person often becomes futile because the starting point—reverence for God—is missing.

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for he will despise

• Fools not only ignore wisdom; they actively scorn it. Proverbs 9:7-8 warns that correcting a scoffer invites abuse.

• Proverbs 29:9 observes that whether you laugh or contend with a fool, there is no rest—only frustration.

• Jesus recognized this hardness of heart in Matthew 13:15, where He notes that some have become “dull” and refuse to understand.

• The consequence: your well-meant counsel is likely to be ridiculed, and you may be drawn into needless conflict.

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the wisdom of your words

• True wisdom flows from God’s revelation (Proverbs 4:5-7) and is “first pure, then peaceable” (James 3:17).

• When we share such wisdom, we are sharing treasure (Colossians 3:16), yet it is treasure only to those ready to receive it.

• The verse therefore protects the value of godly wisdom, steering it toward receptive hearts rather than hostile ones.

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summary

Proverbs 23:9 cautions believers to exercise discernment in conversation. When faced with a person whose heart is hardened against God, silence may serve both parties better than speech. The fool’s contempt not only squanders the precious gift of wisdom but can also drag the wise into needless strife. By guarding our words, we honor wisdom, preserve peace, and remain available to share truth where it can truly take root.

(9) Speak not in the ears of a fool.--Do not waste thy time in explaining matters to him.

A fool.--A dull, stupid person. (Comp. Proverbs 1:22.)

Verse 9. - Here is another case in which "sweet words" are lost. Speak not in the ears of a fool. This does not mean, as it would in our English phrase - whisper not to a fool; but do not take the trouble to try to make him understand, impart nothing to him. The "fool" here (kesil) is the dull, stolid, stupid man. who cannot be moved from his own narrow groove (see on Proverbs 1:22). It is a mere casting of pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6) to speak to such a man of high aims, righteous motives, self-sacrifice (comp. Proverbs 9:8). He will despise the wisdom of thy words. He cannot enter into the meaning of words of wisdom; he has no appetite for them, he cannot assimilate them; and in his self-satisfied dulness he feels for them nothing but contempt (Ecclus. 22:7, etc., "Whoso teacheth a fool is as one that glueth a potsherd together, and as he that waketh one from a sound sleep. He that telleth a tale to a fool speaketh to one in a slumber: whey he hath told his tale, he will say, What is the matter?")

Parallel Commentaries ...


Do not
אַל־ (’al-)
Adverb
Strong's 408: Not

speak
תְּדַבֵּ֑ר (tə·ḏab·bêr)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

to a fool,
כְ֭סִיל (ḵə·sîl)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3684: Stupid fellow, dullard, fool

for
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

he will despise
יָ֝ב֗וּז (yā·ḇūz)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 936: To disrespect

the wisdom
לְשֵׂ֣כֶל (lə·śê·ḵel)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7922: Intelligence, success

of your words.
מִלֶּֽיךָ׃ (mil·le·ḵā)
Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 4405: A word, a discourse, a topic


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 23:9 Don't speak in the ears (Prov. Pro Pr)