Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 12:23, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
American Standard Version
A prudent man concealeth knowledge; But the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
World English Bible version
A prudent man keeps his knowledge, but the hearts of fools proclaim foolishness.
Proverbs 12:23 Meaning & Commentary
A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly. Proverbs 12:23 (ESV)
A central topic that we see in the book of Proverbs is our words. What we say is important; however, what we don’t say is sometimes also equally important.
The Bible says in Proverbs 12:23 that a prudent man conceals knowledge. The word “prudent” here is the Hebrew word “arum,” which also means crafty, sensible, cunning, or shrewd. It speaks of someone who gives thought to their words and actions before speaking or acting.
We are not sure precisely what knowledge is being spoken of here in Proverbs 12:23 – however, I believe this is with purpose. A prudent, wise, and shrewd person will know what to say and when to say it. Some things should not be shared with other people – depending on whose company we are in: Matthew 7:6 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.”
Jesus was talking here about taking valuable “things” – our time, knowledge, resources, etc – and giving them to people who will not appreciate or understand them! This is where a prudent person can discern and know when to conceal something.
On the other hand, a fool gives little to no thought about what he says or does. Even if it is something stupid or inappropriate, they will “blurt it out.” The word folly in Proverbs 12:23 speaks of foolishness.
Have you ever been in a particular situation with other people, and then someone says something inappropriate at the wrong time? This is what Proverbs 12:23 refers to – someone with little to no discernment of how to behave or speak appropriately. This is the opposite of someone who knows when to speak and when to keep silent.
Sometimes even saying a good thing in the wrong company or at the wrong time can be completely inappropriate!
Application
How can we practically apply Proverbs 12:23 to our lives?
The Bible tells us to be slow to speak but quick to hear (or listen): James 1:19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. This is a challenge for all of us because what comes naturally is the opposite.
It is much easier to pay little to no attention when other people are speaking but then jump at the first opportunity to “express ourselves” or get whatever it is “off our chest.” We are better positioned to act appropriately when we are more careful about what we say or do.
It is a principle that if someone acts quickly or hastily, there is a greater “chance” of failure or missing the mark: Proverbs 19:2 Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.
We need to ensure that we are spending time with God – storing up His Word in our hearts and seeking Him for Wisdom. The knowledge of God’s Word – coupled with Wisdom, is a “safety net” for life.
We may not always know how to act appropriately in certain situations and what to say or not; however, when we ask for God’s Wisdom, He will help us, guide us, and lead us. We “protect” ourselves from folly or foolishness by walking with God, living in His Word, and trusting in His Wisdom.
It is not about “trying” not to be foolish. We need to renew our minds with God’s Word – if we do this, then we will be able to walk in God’s perfect will for our lives: Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. God will give us the ability to discern His will – not only his grander plan for our lives but in every situation and circumstance as well!
Prayer
Mighty God, I come to You today, and I ask that you give me wisdom, discernment, and prudence. Help me to know when to conceal knowledge and when to speak.
I pray for self-control so that I may be able to control my tongue in the times when it is most needed. I pray that I would know your perfect will in every situation and be able to act it out accordingly. I ask this right now in Jesus’ name. Amen!
