Proverbs 13:16
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
יַעֲשֶׂ֣ה
man dealeth
H6213
יַעֲשֶׂ֣ה
man dealeth
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
3 of 7
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
וּ֝כְסִ֗יל
but a fool
H3684
וּ֝כְסִ֗יל
but a fool
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
Proverbs 15:2The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.Ephesians 5:17Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.Isaiah 52:13Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.Ecclesiastes 10:3Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a fool.Romans 16:19For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom valued discretion, especially in royal courts and diplomatic contexts. Prudent advisors carefully considered counsel before speaking. Fools spoke rashly, exposing ignorance and causing problems. Proverbs was compiled partly to train young men in courtly wisdom—how to navigate complex social situations with prudence rather than foolishly revealing inadequacy.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you tend to act with knowledge (thinking before speaking/acting) or lay open your folly through impulsive behavior?
- In what situations are you most tempted to speak or act without adequate knowledge or consideration?
- How can cultivating the Spirit's fruit of self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) help you become more prudent in your dealings?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This proverb contrasts prudent wisdom with foolish naivety. "Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge" describes the wise person's modus operandi. Kol-arum ya'aseh veda'at (כָּל־עָרוּם יַעֲשֶׂה בְדָעַת, every shrewd one acts with knowledge). Arum (עָרוּם) means prudent, shrewd, sensible—someone who thinks before acting. They ya'aseh (יַעֲשֶׂה, act, do, make) according to da'at (דַעַת, knowledge, discernment). Their actions are informed, calculated, wise.
"But a fool layeth open his folly" reveals the fool's self-exposure. Ukh'sil yifrosh ivvelet (וּכְסִיל יִפְרֹשׂ אִוֶּלֶת, but a fool spreads foolishness). Kesil (כְּסִיל, fool) yifrosh (יִפְרֹשׂ, spreads out, displays, unfolds) his ivvelet (אִוֶּלֶת, folly, foolishness). While the wise carefully apply knowledge, the fool broadcasts ignorance.
The proverb teaches discretion versus display. Prudent people think before speaking and acting, ensuring their behavior reflects knowledge. Fools act impulsively, revealing their folly to all. Proverbs 12:23 says: "A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness." Jesus exemplified prudence, knowing when to speak and when to remain silent (Matthew 26:63). James commands being "swift to hear, slow to speak" (James 1:19). The Spirit produces self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), enabling believers to act with knowledge rather than laying open folly.