Proverbs Chapter 11 · Verse 12
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
Original Language Analysis
לֵ֑ב
of wisdom
H3820
לֵ֑ב
of wisdom
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 7
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
H376
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 7
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
Cross References
Proverbs 10:19In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.1 Peter 2:23Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:Luke 16:14And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.Luke 18:9And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:Proverbs 14:21He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.
Historical Context
Covenant community ethics required loving neighbors (Lev 19:18). Despising neighbors violated this command, revealing lack of true wisdom rooted in fear of God.
Questions for Reflection
- What contempt toward others reveals lack of wisdom in your life?
- How can you practice wise silence rather than expressing disparaging opinions?
Analysis & Commentary
He that is void of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace. Lacking wisdom produces contempt toward neighbors - foolish persons disparage others. The understanding person remains silent rather than expressing contempt. This verse connects wisdom with charity - genuine understanding produces patience with others' faults. Contempt reveals both intellectual and moral deficiency.