Proverbs 23:9
What does Proverbs 23:9 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 23:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Speak not in the hearing of a fool; For he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Speak not in the hearing of a fool; For he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Say nothing in the hearing of a foolish man, for he will put no value on the wisdom of your words.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862In the ears of a fool speak not, For he treadeth on the wisdom of thy words.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Speak not in the ears of fools: because they will despise the instruction of thy speech.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Speak not in the ears of a foolish [man], for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
Context
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Isaiah 36:21
But they held their peace, and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, saying, Answer him not.
- Acts 28:25
And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Spirit through Isaiah the prophet unto your fathers,
- Acts 13:45
But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with jealousy, and contradicted the things which were spoken by Paul, and blasphemed.
- John 10:20
And many of them said, He hath a demon, and is mad; why hear ye him?
- Matthew 7:6
Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast your pearls before the swine, lest haply they trample them under their feet, and turn and rend you.
- Proverbs 26:4
Answer not a fool according to his folly, Lest thou also be like unto him.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Proverbs 23
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Proverbs 23.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Drunkenness
Drunkenness in the Bible is consistently depicted as a vice that leads to spiritual and practical harm, urging believers toward self-control.
Topic
Bible Verses About Gluttony
The Bible addresses gluttony as a vice linked to self-indulgence and a lack of self-control, warning against its destructive spiritual and physical consequences.
Topic
Bible Verses About Honoring Parents
Honoring parents is a foundational command in Scripture, reflecting God's design for family and societal well-being
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You Can't Sleep Because of Anxious Thoughts
Verses to read in bed when your mind won't stop.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Fear of Failure
When the fear of failing is louder than the dream — verses to keep moving.