What is the meaning of Proverbs 26:4? Do not answer - The opening command is a clear prohibition: “Do not answer.” Scripture sometimes calls for silence when words would only inflame (Proverbs 17:28). - Jesus modeled this restraint before Herod, giving “no answer” to a mocking ruler (Luke 23:9). - Paul instructs, “Reject foolish and ignorant speculations, for you know that they breed quarrels” (2 Timothy 2:23). - Wisdom discerns moments when responding would add heat, not light (Ecclesiastes 3:7). A fool - In biblical terms, a fool is not merely uninformed but morally obstinate—one who “says in his heart, ‘There is no God’ ” (Psalm 14:1). - Proverbs paints the fool as dismissive of counsel (Proverbs 1:7), quick to anger (Proverbs 12:16), and hardened in folly (Proverbs 27:22). - Engaging such a person on his own terms is like “grasping a dog by the ears” (Proverbs 26:17): danger without benefit. According to his folly - The phrase warns against mirroring the fool’s methods—sarcasm, mockery, rash words. - “Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words” (Proverbs 23:9). - Titus 3:9 counsels believers to “avoid foolish controversies… for they are unprofitable and useless.” - Responding in kind validates the fool’s approach and drags the conversation onto a mud-splattered field where wisdom loses its voice. Or you yourself will be like him - Imitating the fool’s tone stains the responder’s character: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). - Proverbs 29:9 illustrates the futility: “If a wise man goes to court with a fool, there will be raving or ridicule, with no resolution.” - Aligning with folly jeopardizes one’s witness; believers are called to let speech “be always with grace, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). - The safeguard is self-control—one of the Spirit’s fruits (Galatians 5:22-23)—which keeps a believer distinctive rather than indistinguishable from the scoffer. summary Proverbs 26:4 warns that answering a fool on his terms drags the wise down to folly’s level. The verse urges restraint, reminding us that silence or a measured response preserves dignity, keeps us from sin, and guards our witness. |
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