Proverbs 14:16
A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.
Original Language Analysis
וּ֝כְסִ֗יל
but the fool
H3684
וּ֝כְסִ֗יל
but the fool
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
Proverbs 22:3A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.Proverbs 3:7Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.1 Thessalonians 5:22Abstain from all appearance of evil.Proverbs 29:9If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.Proverbs 28:14Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.Proverbs 16:17The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.Proverbs 16:6By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.Genesis 42:18And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; for I fear God:Genesis 33:9And Esau said, I have enough, my brother; keep that thou hast unto thyself.Psalms 119:120My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.
Historical Context
Ancient warfare, travel, and daily life involved real dangers. Wise people assessed risks—avoiding enemy strongholds, testing bridges, watching for wild animals. Fools recklessly charged ahead, trusting luck or false confidence. Military disasters often resulted from leaders' arrogant self-confidence despite warnings (1 Kings 22:1-40). The proverb urged prudent fear over foolish presumption.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas might you be acting like the fool—confidently pursuing paths despite warning signs?
- How does proper fear of God produce wise caution that protects you from evil?
- What does it mean to 'depart from evil' practically when you recognize spiritual, moral, or practical dangers?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This proverb contrasts wise caution with foolish recklessness. "A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil" describes prudent behavior. Chakham yare vesur mera (חָכָם יָרֵא וְסָר מֵרָע, wise fears and turns from evil). Yare (יָרֵא, fear, revere) leads to sur (סָר, turning aside, departing) from ra (רָע, evil, harm). Wisdom recognizes danger and avoids it.
"But the fool rageth, and is confident" reveals foolish audacity. Ukhesil mit'abber uvotech (וּכְסִיל מִתְעַבֵּר וּבוֹטֵחַ, but fool rages and is confident). Abar (עָבַר, pass over, transgress) in reflexive form suggests arrogant self-confidence. Batach (בָּטַח, trust, be confident, feel secure) describes the fool's false assurance despite obvious danger.
The proverb addresses risk assessment. The wise fear God and consequences, leading to avoiding evil. Fools, lacking proper fear, charge ahead confidently into disaster. Proverbs 22:3 states: "A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished." Fear of the LORD is wisdom's beginning (Proverbs 9:10). Without it, people confidently pursue destruction. Hebrews 11:7 commends Noah who "moved with fear, prepared an ark." Christians should fear God, not people (Matthew 10:28), and flee temptation (1 Corinthians 6:18, 10:14, 2 Timothy 2:22).