💡WEB · Proverbs 17:27
What does Proverbs 17:27 mean?
"He who spares his words has knowledge. He who is even tempered is a man of understanding."
— Proverbs 17:27 (World English Bible)
Surrounding context
Wisdom is before the face of one who has understanding, but the eyes of a fool wander to the ends of the earth.
A foolish son brings grief to his father, and bitterness to her who bore him.
Also to punish the righteous is not good, nor to flog officials for their integrity.
He who spares his words has knowledge. He who is even tempered is a man of understanding.
Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.
Explanation
Proverbs 17:27 says, in plain terms, that wise people are careful and restrained with their speech, and that emotional steadiness is a mark of true understanding. The verse draws a contrast that runs throughout Proverbs: the person who talks constantly, impulsively, or without thinking is set against the person who measures their words and keeps their composure. To "spare" one's words does not mean being silent out of fear or having nothing to say; it means exercising self-control, speaking with purpose rather than letting words spill out carelessly. Likewise, being "even tempered" (sometimes translated "cool spirit" or "even-spirited") describes someone who doesn't react in the heat of the moment but remains calm, especially under provocation.
This proverb comes from the book of Proverbs, traditionally attributed largely to Solomon, though the book as a whole is a collection of wisdom sayings gathered for the instruction of young people, especially those being trained for life, leadership, and godly character in ancient Israel. Proverbs functioned as a kind of practical curriculum, teaching not abstract philosophy but skill in daily living — how to speak, work, handle money, treat others, and control one's passions. Speech and self-control are recurring themes because in a small, close-knit community, careless words could destroy relationships, reputations, and even lead to violence, while a calm, measured tongue built trust and peace.
Theologically, this verse reflects the biblical conviction that wisdom is not primarily about intelligence or cleverness but about godly character expressed in ordinary behav
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