What is the meaning of Proverbs 23:9?

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.