Proverbs 14:33

33 Wisdom resides in an understanding heart, but it's not known in fools.

Proverbs 14:33 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 14:33

Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding,
&c.] It is in his heart, as the treasury where it is laid up, and where it is kept in safety; here it lies hid and undiscerned, unmolested and undisturbed; no noise is made about it, or any ostentation of it; it dwells quietly and constantly there; but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known;
the least share of knowledge which such persons have, or think they have, does not lie long in the midst of them; they take every opportunity of showing it to others, or of letting others know what they have attained to; and thereby, instead of getting the character of wise and prudent men, obtain that of fools; for, though a prudent man is communicative of his knowledge to others, it is at proper times, and in proper places, and to proper persons, which fools do not observe; but, without any manner of judgment or discretion, or regard to persons, places, and seasons, vainly thrust out their knowledge, and so proclaim their folly. The Syriac version is,

``in the heart of fools it shall not be known;''

it has no place there.

Proverbs 14:33 In-Context

31 Those who exploit the powerless anger their maker, while those who are kind to the poor honor God.

32 The wicked are thrown down by their own evil, but the righteous find refuge even in death.

33 Wisdom resides in an understanding heart, but it's not known in fools.

34 Righteousness dignifies a nation, but sin disgraces a people.

35 The king favors an insightful servant, but is furious at a shameful one.

Footnotes

• [a]. LXX; MT lacks not.