What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:14?

The discerning heart

Proverbs 15:14 opens with “A discerning heart….” Discernment is the Spirit-given ability to distinguish truth from error and right from wrong (1 Corinthians 2:14–15; Hebrews 5:14). Scripture portrays such a heart as:

• humble and teachable (Proverbs 9:9; Psalm 25:9)

• tuned to God’s Word (Psalm 119:66; Proverbs 2:2-6)

• quick to examine everything by the standard of revealed truth (Acts 17:11)

Because “the LORD gives wisdom” (Proverbs 2:6), the discerning person depends on Him rather than on self-generated insight (James 1:5).

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Seeks knowledge

The verse continues, “…seeks knowledge….” Seeking is active pursuit, not passive curiosity. The wise:

• treasure Scripture daily (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2)

• invite counsel from godly believers (Proverbs 11:14; 27:17)

• value correction (Proverbs 12:1; 19:20)

• apply what they learn (James 1:22)

Knowledge here is moral and spiritual—truth that shapes character and conduct (Colossians 1:9-10). Desire for such knowledge is evidence of loving God “with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37).

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But the mouth of a fool

In contrast, the second half warns, “…but the mouth of a fool….” A fool in Proverbs is not intellectually deficient but morally stubborn (Psalm 14:1; Proverbs 1:7). His mouth exposes his heart (Luke 6:45). Hallmarks include:

• careless words (Proverbs 10:14; 18:7)

• rapid, opinionated speech (Proverbs 29:11; Ecclesiastes 5:3)

• rejection of reproof (Proverbs 12:15)

Instead of reflecting, he reacts; instead of listening, he lashes out.

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Feeds on folly

The fool’s mouth “feeds on folly.” Like an animal grazing, he continually consumes and spreads nonsense—ideas opposed to God’s wisdom (Proverbs 15:2; 26:11). Folly becomes both his diet and his product:

• gossip, slander, coarse talk (Ephesians 5:4; Proverbs 20:19)

• mockery of righteousness (Proverbs 14:9; 21:24)

• self-promotion and empty boasting (Proverbs 27:22; 2 Timothy 3:2)

His appetite for foolishness hardens his heart (Romans 1:21-22) and influences others for harm (Proverbs 13:20).

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Summary

Proverbs 15:14 contrasts two heart-conditions revealed by speech. The discerning heart hungers for God’s truth and seeks it actively, while the fool’s mouth craves and circulates empty foolishness. Our words therefore serve as a spiritual barometer: they show whether we are diligently pursuing the knowledge that leads to life or mindlessly grazing on folly that leads to ruin.