Proverbs 15:14
The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.
Original Language Analysis
לֵ֣ב
The heart
H3820
לֵ֣ב
The heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
1 of 8
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 8
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
יְבַקֶּשׁ
seeketh
H1245
יְבַקֶּשׁ
seeketh
Strong's:
H1245
Word #:
3 of 8
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
וּפִ֥ני
but the mouth
H6310
וּפִ֥ני
but the mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
5 of 8
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
כְ֝סִילִ֗ים
of fools
H3684
כְ֝סִילִ֗ים
of fools
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
Proverbs 9:9Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.Isaiah 30:10Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:Proverbs 18:15The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.Acts 17:11These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.2 Peter 3:18But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, knowledge meant skill in living according to God's wisdom. Wise people sought instruction from elders, studied Torah, and learned from experience. Fools passively absorbed cultural foolishness. The contrast continues—believers should crave spiritual milk and solid food (1 Peter 2:2, Hebrews 5:12-14), not feeding on worldly folly.
Questions for Reflection
- What are you actively seeking—knowledge of God and His ways, or are you passively feeding on foolishness?
- What does 'seeking knowledge' look like practically in terms of Bible study, reading, and learning from wise mentors?
- How can you starve your appetite for foolishness and cultivate hunger for biblical wisdom?
Analysis & Commentary
The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness. The wise person's heart actively pursues wisdom. Lev navon yevaqesh da'at (לֵב נָבוֹן יְבַקֵּשׁ דָּעַת, the heart of the discerning seeks knowledge). Baqash (בָּקַשׁ, seek, search for, request) shows active pursuit. By contrast, upney kesilim yir'eh ivvelet (וּפְנֵי כְסִילִים יִרְעֶה אִוֶּלֶת, but the face/mouth of fools feeds on folly). Fools consume foolishness like cattle grazing—passively, constantly, contentedly. The wise hunger for truth; fools are satisfied with error.