Proverbs 14:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 14:15
15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 14 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, faith, prayer. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 14:15
15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.
Analysis
This proverb contrasts gullibility with prudence. "The simple believeth every word" warns against naivety. Peti ya'amin lekhol-davar (פֶּתִי יַאֲמִין לְכָל־דָּבָר, the simple believes every word). Peti (פֶּתִי, simple, naive, gullible) describes the immature or foolish person who aman (אָמַן, believes, trusts) every davar (דָּבָר, word, thing, matter) without discernment.
"But the prudent man looketh well to his going" presents careful wisdom. Vearum yavin le'ashuro (וְעָרוּם יָבִין לַאֲשֻׁרוֹ, but the prudent discerns his step). Arum (עָרוּם, prudent, shrewd) bin (בִּין, discerns, understands, considers) his ashur (אֲשֻׁר, step, going). The wise person thinks carefully before proceeding.
The proverb warns against credulity and commends discernment. Acts 17:11 commends Bereans who tested Paul's teaching against Scripture. 1 John 4:1 commands testing spirits. Proverbs 14:18 says "the simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge." In an age of misinformation, believers must exercise biblical discernment—not believing every claim but testing all things (1 Thessalonians 5:21). The Spirit gives discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14-15). Satan deceives through lies (John 8:44). Christians must be wise as serpents while harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16), carefully evaluating teaching and watching their steps.
Historical Context
Ancient world had no fact-checking systems. False prophets, deceitful merchants, and lying witnesses abounded. The simple, lacking discernment, were easily deceived into bad deals, false worship, or unjust testimony. Prudent Israelites tested prophets against Torah (Deuteronomy 13:1-5, 18:21-22) and required multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). This proverb urged developing critical thinking rooted in God's Word.
Reflection
- In what areas might you be 'simple,' accepting claims without proper evaluation or biblical discernment?
- How can you become more prudent in evaluating teaching, media, and cultural messages against Scripture?
- What does 'looking well to your going' mean practically in your daily decisions and spiritual walk?
Word Studies
- Believe: אָמַן (Aman) H539 - To believe, trust, be faithful
Cross-References
- Faith: 1 John 4:1
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 4:26, 14:8, 27:12, Ephesians 4:14, 5:17