Proverbs 12:16

Authorized King James Version

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A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

Original Language Analysis

אֱוִ֗יל A fool's H191
אֱוִ֗יל A fool's
Strong's: H191
Word #: 1 of 7
(figuratively) silly
בַּ֭יּוֹם is presently H3117
בַּ֭יּוֹם is presently
Strong's: H3117
Word #: 2 of 7
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
יִוָּדַ֣ע known H3045
יִוָּדַ֣ע known
Strong's: H3045
Word #: 3 of 7
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
כַּעְס֑וֹ wrath H3708
כַּעְס֑וֹ wrath
Strong's: H3708
Word #: 4 of 7
vexation
וְכֹסֶ֖ה man covereth H3680
וְכֹסֶ֖ה man covereth
Strong's: H3680
Word #: 5 of 7
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
קָל֣וֹן shame H7036
קָל֣וֹן shame
Strong's: H7036
Word #: 6 of 7
disgrace; (by implication) the pudenda
עָרֽוּם׃ but a prudent H6175
עָרֽוּם׃ but a prudent
Strong's: H6175
Word #: 7 of 7
cunning (usually in a bad sense)

Analysis & Commentary

A fool's wrath is presently known, but a prudent man covers shame. Fools immediately display anger - no self-control delays emotional expression. Prudent persons conceal insult (kelon - disgrace, dishonor) rather than reacting visibly. This verse contrasts impulsive emotional reaction with measured response. Wisdom includes emotional regulation; folly includes uncontrolled expression.

Historical Context

Reflects ancient honor-shame culture where responding to insult was expected. Yet wisdom recognized that overlooking offense demonstrated strength, not weakness.

Questions for Reflection

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