Proverbs 15:2
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The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
Note, 1. A good heart by the tongue becomes very useful. He that has knowledge is not only to enjoy it, for his own entertainment, but to use it, to use it aright, for the edification of others; and it is the tongue that must make use of it in pious profitable discourse, in giving suitable and seasonable instructions, counsels, and comforts, with all possible expressions of humility and love, and then knowledge is used aright; and to him that has, and thus uses what he has, more shall be given. 2. A wicked heart by the tongue becomes very hurtful; for the mouth of fools belches out foolishness, which is very offensive; and the corrupt communication which proceeds from an evil treasure within (the filthiness, and foolish talking, and jesting) corrupts the good manners of some and debauches them, and grieves the good hearts of others and disturbs them.
Open source ↗15:2 A wise teacher presents lessons in an attractive way. Crude belching describes the ugly teaching of a fool.
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
A shrewd man keeps his knowledge to himself, but a foolish heart proclaims its folly.
The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil.
Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool displays his folly.
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses to the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.
See what they spew from their mouths— sharp words from their lips: “For who can hear us?”
The heart of the wise man instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
A man takes joy in a fitting reply— and how good is a timely word!
The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of discipleship, to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning; He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple.