Ecclesiastes 9:17
The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.
Original Language Analysis
דִּבְרֵ֣י
The words
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֣י
The words
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
1 of 7
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
בְּנַ֖חַת
in quiet
H5183
בְּנַ֖חַת
in quiet
Strong's:
H5183
Word #:
3 of 7
a descent, i.e., imposition, unfavorable (punishment) or favorable (food)
נִשְׁמָעִ֑ים
men are heard
H8085
נִשְׁמָעִ֑ים
men are heard
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
4 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
Historical Context
Ancient rhetoric valued forceful oratory, but Hebrew wisdom tradition uniquely prized restrained, measured speech. The contrast between prophetic thunder (sometimes necessary) and daily wise counsel (usually quiet) appears throughout Scripture.
Questions for Reflection
- How does contemporary culture's addiction to volume and drama obscure quiet wisdom?
- In what ways might you be mistaking loudness or confidence for truth or authority?
- What practices help you cultivate the 'quiet' spirit that characterizes wise communication?
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Analysis & Commentary
The words of wise men are heard in quiet (דִּבְרֵי חֲכָמִים בְּנַחַת נִשְׁמָעִים, divrei chakhamim benachat nishma'im)—'the words of the wise in quietness are heard,' using nachat (quietness, calm, rest). More than the cry of him that ruleth among fools (מִזַּעֲקַת מוֹשֵׁל בַּכְּסִילִים, mizza'aqat moshel bakseilim)—'than the shouting of a ruler among fools,' from za'aqah (cry, shout, loud voice).
This verse contrasts communication styles and contexts: wise speech operates benachat (in calm quietness), while foolish leadership requires za'aqah (shouting, clamor). The principle: truth doesn't need volume—wisdom spoken gently carries more weight than foolishness bellowed loudly. The phrase 'ruler among fools' suggests a leader whose authority derives from noise rather than substance, requiring constant loud assertion because lacking intrinsic credibility. Proverbs 17:27 agrees: 'Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.' Jesus spoke with quiet authority (Matthew 7:29), never needing to shout. Elijah learned God speaks not in earthquake or fire but 'a still small voice' (1 Kings 19:12).