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Proverbs 17:28
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Ver. 28 continues the same theme, the value of silence: Even a fool, when he keeps silence, is counted wise; When he shutteth his mouth, discreet. The subj. as well as the pred. of the first line avail for the second. אטם, obturare, occludere, usually of the closing the ear, is here transferred to the mouth. The Hiph. החרישׁ means mutum agere (cf. Arab. khrs, mutum esse), from חרשׁ, which, like κωφός, passes from the meaning surdus to that of mutus (Fl.). The words of Job 13:5, and also those of Alexander: si tacuisses sapiens mansisses, are applicable to fools. An Arab. proverb says, "silence is the covering of the stupid." In the epigrammatical hexameter, πᾶς τις ἀπαίδευτος φρονιμώτατός ἐστι σιωπῶν, the word σιωπῶν has the very same syntactical position as these two participles. (Note: Cf. C. Schultze's Die bibl. Sprichwrter (1860), p. 60f.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise,.... Not only one that is sparing of his words, and is really a man of knowledge and understanding; but even a feel, if he is but silent, and does not betray his folly by his words, will be reckoned a wise man by those that do not know him; and, whatever fool he may be in other respects, yet in this he acts the wise part, that he holds his peace and says nothing; and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding; and keeps them shut, lest he should say anything rashly and hastily; a man that has so much command of himself as not to speak unadvisedly, through the heat of his own passions, and through the provocations of others, will pass for a man that understands himself, and knows how to behave well before others. Next: Proverbs Chapter 18
Proverbs 17:28
Better a Dry Morsel in Quietness
27A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. 28Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.
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Being an Encourager
By George Verwer3.3K1:01:52EncouragementPRO 17:28MAT 6:33HEB 10:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing when to speak and when to be silent, drawing from the wisdom of Proverbs. He also highlights the power of sharing the Word of God with others, whether through sending portions of Scripture or distributing free materials. The speaker encourages listeners to do good even when accused of ulterior motives and to remain honest and frank despite the vulnerability it may bring. He also reminds them to prioritize prayer and to be willing to visit and give their time to others, especially in a world that values privacy.
(Proverbs) ch.12:22 - 14:4
By Zac Poonen1.3K1:01:13PRO 10:4PRO 12:22PRO 13:14PRO 14:15PRO 17:28ROM 8:28REV 21:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fearing God's commandments and the rewards that come with it. He highlights the power of wise teachings, comparing them to a fountain of life that helps us avoid the snares of debt. The preacher encourages believers to control their tongues and speak words that are like a spring of fresh water, bringing life to others. He also emphasizes the need for diligence and hard work, both in our spiritual lives and in making disciples. The sermon concludes with a reminder to be trustworthy messengers of peace and to embrace discipline and criticism for growth.
Guidelines to Freedom Part 8 - the Truth Matters
By Alistair Begg82246:04FreedomEXO 20:16PRO 10:19PRO 17:28PRO 18:21JHN 8:44JAS 3:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenge of delivering things to people on time. He shares a strategy of overestimating the delivery time to avoid disappointing the recipient. The speaker then transitions to the topic of lying and how it has become an art form in our culture. He emphasizes that lying is morally wrong and foolish, even though some intelligent and influential people promote it. The sermon concludes with the reminder that righteousness and transformed lives come from the gospel and the need to accept Jesus into our hearts.
The Tongue!
By Keith Daniel5581:17:55PSA 27:5PSA 46:10PSA 141:3PRO 10:19PRO 14:29PRO 15:1PRO 17:28ISA 53:7JAS 1:191PE 3:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's grace to keep silent in the face of opposition, especially within the home, to avoid losing relationships due to impulsive reactions. It highlights the power of silence, the example of Christ not retaliating, and the need to trust God to fight battles. The message stresses the impact of words on relationships and the need for wisdom in speech to edify others. It also underscores the significance of seeking God's grace to handle conflicts and challenges with a spirit of meekness and forgiveness.
All Men Are Not to Be Believed, for It Is Easy to Err in Speech
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 28:7PSA 62:8PSA 146:3PRO 3:5PRO 4:23PRO 17:28EPH 4:291PE 4:11Thomas a Kempis preaches about the challenges of finding faithfulness in people and the importance of putting our trust in God alone, who is entirely faithful in all things. He emphasizes the wisdom of seeking God with a simple heart to avoid deception and find comfort in times of trouble. Kempis also highlights the value of being cautious with our words, seeking God as the discerner of hearts, and keeping heavenly grace by not seeking admiration from others but focusing on fervor and amendment of life.
On Keeping Quiet.
By J.R. Miller0SilenceMastery of SpeechPRO 10:19PRO 17:28ECC 3:7MAT 12:36JAS 1:19J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:7. He highlights that while speech can be powerful and beneficial, there are moments when silence is more appropriate and even necessary, especially in the presence of grief or injustice. Miller reflects on the example of Jesus, who often chose silence over words, teaching us that self-discipline and divine help are essential in mastering our speech. He warns against the dangers of hasty words that can cause irreparable harm and encourages believers to seek God's guidance in their communication. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a balance between speaking and silence, urging us to listen for God's voice before we speak.
The Ninth Degree of Humility
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PSA 140:11PRO 10:19PRO 17:28ECC 3:7JAS 1:19St. Benedict of Nursia preaches on the ninth degree of humility, emphasizing the importance of monks restraining their tongues and practicing silence, only speaking when questioned. He references Proverbs 10:19 which warns against sinning through excessive speech, and Psalms 140:11 highlighting the instability of talkative individuals on earth.
Step 11 on Talkativeness and Silence.
By St. John Climacus0PSA 141:3PRO 10:19PRO 17:28PRO 21:23ECC 3:7JAS 1:26St. John Climacus emphasizes the dangers of judgment, the importance of deliberate silence, and the virtues of controlling one's tongue and embracing silence to draw near to God. He highlights how talkativeness leads to various vices and distractions, while deliberate silence fosters prayer, remembrance of death, and contemplation. St. John Climacus also points out that talkativeness often stems from vainglory or other passions, and those who love silence and spiritual mourning are able to overcome it.
Listening to God Before We Speak for Him
By A.W. Tozer0Listening to GodThe Power of Silence1KI 19:12PSA 39:2PSA 46:10PSA 62:1PRO 17:28ECC 3:7ISA 30:15HAB 2:1MAT 6:6JAS 1:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and listening to God before speaking on His behalf. He reflects on how true understanding and revelation come from a quiet heart, as exemplified by David's experience of musing in silence before speaking. Tozer suggests that many Christians would benefit from taking time to be still and listen for God's voice, which can lead to profound spiritual healing and insight. He warns that a busy mouth often hinders the heart from receiving divine truth. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the practice of silence to deepen our relationship with God.
A Closed Mouth and Silent Heart
By A.W. Tozer0Listening to GodSilence in PrayerPSA 39:3PSA 46:10PSA 62:1PRO 17:28ECC 3:7ISA 30:15LAM 3:26MAT 6:61TH 5:17JAS 1:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and a closed mouth in prayer, arguing that true communion with God transcends mere requests for personal gain. He reflects on Psalm 39:3, illustrating that a hot heart often arises from a quiet spirit, and that listening is essential before speaking. Tozer warns against the tendency of modern prayer to focus on what we can 'get' from God, urging believers to seek a deeper union with Him. He concludes with a personal prayer for the discipline of silence before God, recognizing its necessity for spiritual growth.
Monastics Ought to Be Zealous for Silence at All Times
By St. Benedict of Nursia0EXO 14:14PSA 46:10PRO 17:28ECC 3:7JAS 1:19St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of silence, especially during the night hours, for monastics. He outlines a structured program for different seasons, whether fasting or having two meals, including communal reading of spiritual texts like the Conferences or Lives of the Fathers. St. Benedict advises against reading certain parts of Scripture late at night to protect weaker minds. He enforces strict silence after Compline, allowing exceptions only for necessary communication with guests or orders from the Abbess, to be done with seriousness and restraint.
The Blessing of Quietness
By J.R. Miller0The Power of SilencePeace in GodPSA 46:10PRO 15:1PRO 17:28PRO 21:23ECC 3:7ISA 30:15PHP 4:71TH 4:11JAS 1:191PE 3:4J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound blessings of quietness, illustrating how it benefits both the individual and those around them. He highlights the biblical wisdom that encourages silence, noting that while speaking has its place, there are times when being quiet is far more valuable. Miller draws on scriptural examples, such as the life of Christ and the teachings of the apostles, to advocate for a quiet spirit and the importance of thoughtful speech. He warns against the dangers of careless words and gossip, urging believers to cultivate a spirit of peace and restraint in their interactions. Ultimately, he concludes that true strength lies in the ability to remain silent in the face of provocation and to find peace in God's presence.
Unanswered Prayer?
By Bakht Singh0JOB 30:20PSA 46:10PRO 17:28ISA 41:10HEB 11:1Bakht Singh preaches about the lessons we learn when God is silent, using Job's experience to illustrate the feeling of unanswered prayers and darkness in our lives. He emphasizes that silence from God does not mean absence, but rather an opportunity to build intimacy and trust. Through silence, our faith is tested as we learn to rely on God without constant guidance, demonstrating our growth and trust in Him.
Stories From the Desert Fathers
By Desert Fathers0PRO 17:281CO 9:27PHP 4:6COL 3:13JAS 1:19The Desert Fathers, including Abba Agathon, Abba Anthony the Great, Abba Evagrius Ponticus, Abba Isaiah, Abba Sylvanus, Abba Poemen, and Theophilus the Archbishop, share profound wisdom on spiritual disciplines, humility, prayer, and the importance of self-control and forgiveness. They emphasize the significance of maintaining inner peace, avoiding distractions, and the power of prayer in overcoming spiritual battles. These teachings highlight the virtues of silence, forgiveness, and the need for self-discipline in the pursuit of a deeper relationship with God.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Ver. 28 continues the same theme, the value of silence: Even a fool, when he keeps silence, is counted wise; When he shutteth his mouth, discreet. The subj. as well as the pred. of the first line avail for the second. אטם, obturare, occludere, usually of the closing the ear, is here transferred to the mouth. The Hiph. החרישׁ means mutum agere (cf. Arab. khrs, mutum esse), from חרשׁ, which, like κωφός, passes from the meaning surdus to that of mutus (Fl.). The words of Job 13:5, and also those of Alexander: si tacuisses sapiens mansisses, are applicable to fools. An Arab. proverb says, "silence is the covering of the stupid." In the epigrammatical hexameter, πᾶς τις ἀπαίδευτος φρονιμώτατός ἐστι σιωπῶν, the word σιωπῶν has the very same syntactical position as these two participles. (Note: Cf. C. Schultze's Die bibl. Sprichwrter (1860), p. 60f.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise,.... Not only one that is sparing of his words, and is really a man of knowledge and understanding; but even a feel, if he is but silent, and does not betray his folly by his words, will be reckoned a wise man by those that do not know him; and, whatever fool he may be in other respects, yet in this he acts the wise part, that he holds his peace and says nothing; and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding; and keeps them shut, lest he should say anything rashly and hastily; a man that has so much command of himself as not to speak unadvisedly, through the heat of his own passions, and through the provocations of others, will pass for a man that understands himself, and knows how to behave well before others. Next: Proverbs Chapter 18