Proverbs 14:33
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.
Original Language Analysis
בְּלֵ֣ב
in the heart
H3820
בְּלֵ֣ב
in the heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
1 of 7
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
נָ֭בוֹן
of him that hath understanding
H995
נָ֭בוֹן
of him that hath understanding
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
2 of 7
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
תָּנ֣וּחַ
resteth
H5117
תָּנ֣וּחַ
resteth
Strong's:
H5117
Word #:
3 of 7
to rest, i.e., settle down; used in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, intransitive, transitive and causative (to dwell, stay, l
וּבְקֶ֥רֶב
but that which is in the midst
H7130
וּבְקֶ֥רֶב
but that which is in the midst
Strong's:
H7130
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
Cross References
Proverbs 12:16A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.Proverbs 29:11A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.Proverbs 15:28The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.Proverbs 13:16Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.Proverbs 12:23A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.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.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom tradition valued discretion. Wise counselors didn't broadcast everything they knew. Fools, lacking depth, displayed shallow knowledge loudly. Proverbs 12:23 says: "A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness." Jesus exemplified this—speaking plainly to disciples but in parables to crowds (Matthew 13:10-17), knowing when to reveal and conceal truth.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you tend to rest quietly in wisdom or feel compelled to broadcast what you know?
- What is the difference between humble confidence in truth and proud display of knowledge?
- How can you cultivate a heart where wisdom 'rests' rather than a mouth that must constantly speak?
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Analysis & Commentary
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known. Belev navon tanuach chokhmah (בְּלֵב נָבוֹן תָּנוּחַ חָכְמָה, in the heart of the discerning wisdom rests). Nuach (נוּחַ, rest, settle, remain) shows wisdom dwells peacefully in understanding hearts. Uvekerev kesilim tivvada (וּבְקֶרֶב כְּסִילִים תִּוָּדֵעַ, but in the midst of fools it is made known). The text suggests that whatever wisdom fools possess becomes known—likely meaning they broadcast it prematurely or proudly. The wise keep wisdom quietly until appropriate; fools advertise what little they have.