Proverbs 16:22

22 Common sense is a fountain of life to one who has it, whereas fools are punished by their own folly.

Proverbs 16:22 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:22

Understanding [is] a wellspring of life unto him that hath
it
"The master" or "owner of it" ^F11. As he only is to whom an understanding is given; for, whatever understanding men may have of natural and civil things, they have none of things spiritual and divine, unless it be given them by Christ. This is no other than the grace of the Spirit of God, who is a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ; and this is a well of living water, springing up unto everlasting life, and it issues in it; with the knowledge of Christ, and God in Christ, eternal life is connected, ( John 4:14 ) ( 17:3 ) ; and as this knowledge and understanding of things is communicated by wise and knowing men, they are the means and instruments of the spiritual life of those to whom they minister, and are made useful; but the instruction of fools [is] folly;
the best instruction they are capable of giving is downright folly, and issues in death.

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FOOTNOTES:

F11 (wyleb) "domini sui", Pagninus; "domino suo", Mercerus, Gejerus; "dominorum suorum", Michaelis.

Proverbs 16:22 In-Context

20 He who has skill in a matter will succeed; he who trusts in ADONAI will be happy.

21 A wise-hearted person is said to have discernment, and sweetness of speech adds to learning.

22 Common sense is a fountain of life to one who has it, whereas fools are punished by their own folly.

23 The wise man's heart teaches his mouth, and to his lips it adds learning.

24 Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweet to the taste and healing for the body.