Proverbs 14:33

¶ Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known.

Wisdom {H2451} resteth {H5117} in the heart {H3820} of him that hath understanding {H995}: but that which is in the midst {H7130} of fools {H3684} is made known {H3045}.

Wisdom is at rest in a person with discernment, but in fools it has to call attention to itself.

Wisdom rests in the heart of the discerning; even among fools she is known.

Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; Butthat which isin the inward part of fools is made known.

Proverbs 14:33 KJV: "¶ Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known."

Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom, offering stark contrasts between the path of the wise and the path of the fool. Chapter 14 continues this theme, highlighting the outcomes and characteristics of each. This verse focuses on the internal nature of true wisdom and understanding, contrasting it with the outward, often exposed, nature of foolishness.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of Wisdom: Wisdom is portrayed as something settled and quiet ("resteth") within the heart of the person who possesses understanding. It is not necessarily loud or ostentatious.
  • The Seat of Understanding: The "heart" is understood in Hebrew thought as the center of intellect, will, and emotion – the core of a person's being. True understanding resides deeply within.
  • The Exposure of Folly: In contrast to hidden wisdom, what is "in the midst of fools" is "made known." This can imply that their foolish thoughts, lack of self-control, or misguided intentions are easily revealed, perhaps through rash speech or actions.

Linguistic Insights

The word for "wisdom" is chokmah (חָכְמָה), referring to skill in living and discerning truth. "Understanding" is tevunah (תְּבוּנָה), often linked to discernment and insight. The word "resteth" (נוּחַ - nuach) suggests a state of being settled, quiet, or dwelling. "Fools" (כְּסִילִים - kesilim) typically refers to the stubborn or arrogant fool who resists instruction. "Made known" (יִוָּדַע - yiwada) is a passive form, indicating that their inner state or thoughts become revealed or exposed, often to their detriment.

Related Scriptures

This proverb highlights the internal nature of true wisdom, which is often quiet and discerning, contrasting with the outward display of folly. The wise person treasures understanding within their core being, much like the call to guard the heart as the wellspring of life (Proverbs 4:23). In contrast, the fool's inner lack or foolishness is easily revealed through speech or action, echoing other proverbs about how a fool's heart proclaims foolishness (Proverbs 12:23).

Practical Application

This verse teaches that true wisdom is not about outward show or noisy proclamation, but a settled quality within one's character and mind. It encourages cultivating genuine understanding and discernment internally rather than seeking external validation or making a spectacle of oneself. Folly, on the other hand, is often exposed through rash words or actions, serving as a warning against impulsive or ignorant behavior. Seek inner wisdom, and let your actions quietly reflect it, rather than letting foolishness be publicly revealed.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 12:16

    ¶ A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent [man] covereth shame.

  • Proverbs 15:28

    ¶ The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

  • Proverbs 13:16

    ¶ Every prudent [man] dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open [his] folly.

  • Ecclesiastes 10:3

    Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth [him], and he saith to every one [that] he [is] a fool.

  • Proverbs 29:11

    ¶ A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise [man] keepeth it in till afterwards.

  • Proverbs 12:23

    ¶ A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

  • Proverbs 15:2

    ¶ The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back