Proverbs 17:27
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.
Original Language Analysis
חוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ
spareth
H2820
חוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ
spareth
Strong's:
H2820
Word #:
1 of 8
to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe
יוֹדֵ֣עַ
He that hath
H3045
יוֹדֵ֣עַ
He that hath
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
3 of 8
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
Cross References
James 3:18And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.James 1:19Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:Proverbs 10:19In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.Proverbs 14:29He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.James 3:2For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.Proverbs 15:28The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.Ecclesiastes 9:17The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.Proverbs 16:32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
Historical Context
Ancient rhetorical cultures valued eloquence and persuasive speech. Yet Proverbs repeatedly warns against hasty or excessive words (10:19, 13:3, 17:28, 21:23, 29:20), prizing careful, measured speech. This wisdom countered both ancient sophistry and modern cultures of constant communication and opinion-sharing. Silence and restraint often demonstrate wisdom more than voluble speech.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you speak too much, feeling compelled to fill silence or prove your knowledge through constant talking?
- How can you develop the 'cool spirit' that speaks judiciously rather than hastily or excessively?
Analysis & Commentary
This proverb commends wise speech: 'He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.' Those with genuine knowledge (da'at) are sparing with words—they don't feel compelled to speak constantly or prove themselves through much speaking. 'A man of understanding' (ish tevunah) possesses an 'excellent spirit' (qar-ruach—literally 'cool of spirit,' meaning calm, composed, level-headed). The principle: wisdom shows itself in measured, restrained speech, not constant talking. This anticipates James' teaching: 'let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak' (James 1:19). Fools multiply words; the wise speak judiciously.