Proverbs 10:14
Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.
Original Language Analysis
יִצְפְּנוּ
men lay up
H6845
יִצְפְּנוּ
men lay up
Strong's:
H6845
Word #:
2 of 7
to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk
וּפִֽי
but the mouth
H6310
וּפִֽי
but the mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
4 of 7
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
Cross References
Proverbs 18:7A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.Proverbs 10:8The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.Proverbs 13:3He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.Proverbs 9:9Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.Proverbs 10:10He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall.
Historical Context
In ancient agrarian societies, storing grain was essential for survival during lean years. Joseph's wisdom in storing during plenty saved Egypt and Israel during famine (Genesis 41). Solomon applies this principle to intellectual and spiritual preparedness—wise people accumulate knowledge against future trials. The fool's mouth, by contrast, hastens destruction through rash words, false witness, or revealing secrets.
Questions for Reflection
- How are you intentionally 'laying up knowledge' through Bible study, reading, and learning from wise mentors?
- In what situations has your mouth brought you near destruction due to hasty or foolish words?
- How does hiding God's Word in your heart (Psalm 119:11) prepare you for spiritual battles and moral decisions?
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Analysis & Commentary
This proverb contrasts wisdom's strategic preparation with folly's impending disaster. "Wise men lay up knowledge" uses tsaphan (צָפַן, to treasure, store, hide away)—the same verb describing hiding treasure for safekeeping. Knowledge (da'at, דַּעַת) is not mere information but skillful understanding of God's ways. The wise accumulate wisdom as one stores grain for famine, building reserves for future challenges.
"But the mouth of the foolish is near destruction" presents the alternative. The fool's mouth—representing his characteristic speech—stands on the precipice of ruin. Mechittah (מְחִתָּה, destruction, ruin) awaits the careless talker. Rather than storing wisdom, the fool speaks impulsively, revealing ignorance and inviting calamity. James 3:6 warns that "the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity...and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell."
The proverb teaches preparedness versus presumption. The wise anticipate challenges by accumulating wisdom from Scripture, godly counsel, and experience. The fool speaks without thought, creating problems rather than solving them. In Christ, believers have access to God's infinite wisdom (Colossians 2:3) and should diligently store His Word in their hearts (Psalm 119:11).