Proverbs 15:21
Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.
Original Language Analysis
לֵ֑ב
of wisdom
H3820
לֵ֑ב
of wisdom
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 8
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וְאִ֥ישׁ
but a man
H376
וְאִ֥ישׁ
but a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
תְּ֝בוּנָ֗ה
of understanding
H8394
תְּ֝בוּנָ֗ה
of understanding
Strong's:
H8394
Word #:
6 of 8
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice
Cross References
Proverbs 10:23It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.Ephesians 5:15See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,Proverbs 14:9Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.Proverbs 14:16A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.Proverbs 11:12He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.Psalms 111:10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.Job 28:28And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.James 3:13Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Historical Context
Throughout Israel's history, fools found joy in idolatry, sexual immorality, injustice—practices abhorrent to God. The wise found joy in Torah, worship, and righteousness. Psalm 1 contrasts the blessed man who delights in God's law with the wicked. Romans 1:32 describes those who "have pleasure in them that do" evil. Conversion changes what we find joyful (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Questions for Reflection
- What brings you joy—foolish pleasures or righteous living?
- How has the gospel transformed your desires, making what once seemed joyful now repulsive and vice versa?
- What does it mean to find joy in walking uprightly rather than in folly?
Analysis & Commentary
Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly. Simchah le'chasar-lev ivvelet (שִׂמְחָה לַחֲסַר־לֵב אִוֶּלֶת, folly is joy to one lacking heart). Those lacking discernment find pleasure in foolishness. Ve'ish tevunah yosher halokh (וְאִישׁ תְּבוּנָה יֹשֶׁר הָלֹךְ, but a man of understanding walks straight). The discerning walk uprightly (yashar, יָשַׁר, straight, right, upright). The proverb contrasts corrupted versus proper pleasure. The fool delights in evil; the wise delight in righteousness. True conversion transforms desires.