Proverbs 14:33, Poise Versus Prattle

September 3, Proverbs 14:33

Luke 2:40-52; 4:22; Jas. 1:5-7 “Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom” (1 Cor. 1:30).

Poise Versus Prattle

What is it that in the midst of fools is made known? Is it folly or wisdom? The word wisdom and both verbs are feminine. It is thus that most modern versions contradict one another, depending on which option they choose. RSV says, but it (wisdom) is not known in the heart of fools. The RSV footnote shows it followed the Greek (LXX), but adds “Heb. lacks not.” The NRSV, reflecting the very latest scholarship, still inserts not known, while adding a note that not only the Hebrew lacks not, but also Greek and Syriac versions! NASV reads, but in the bosom of fools it (wisdom) is made known. Yet, the NAV (with Apocrypha) reads, but in the bosom of fools it is unknown! Surely Bibles that contradict one another cannot be the Word of God! Since folly is also feminine (14:24), there is no problem with the verb. The simple contrast in this proverb must be between the wise person who shows wisdom, and fools, who only display their folly!

1. The Throne: Wisdom resteth in the heart. It is not just a matter of the head. “It flows from the head, and rests in the heart” (Bridges). The heart must be its throne-room. It is there that knowledge becomes wisdom. It is from there that it reigns, ready to be brought out, but only when needed. There is no ostentation or show to parade one’s learning. The heart is the seat of the affections, and there wisdom rests and rules. How beautifully we see this in the earthly life of the Lord Jesus (Jn. 3:34; 7:46; Mt. 22:46)!

2. The Treasure: of him that hath understanding (intelligent one). There is entrusted to this one the rich treasures of knowledge and wisdom. Such are usually modest, and as a rule slow to speak. It is hidden treasure, waiting to be brought forth at the right time. Some are slow to speak because they have only empty heads and hearts. Some are slow because they are shy and withdrawn, but the sign of wisdom is quiet poise without pretense. On the practical side, it preserves from being carried about with divers and strange doctrines, and gives us a heart established with grace (Heb. 13:9).

3. The Throat: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known. This is fool’s prattle. If in the midst of fools refers to their heart, as in the case of wisdom above, then their heart is always in their mouth, as we sometimes say! Their words come from no deeper than their throats! Babies and little children have a delightful little prattle. How sad, however, when grownups behave like prattling children! Fools show more eagerness to display their folly than even the wise to show their wisdom. This interpretation catches the true spirit of today’s proverb, as well as being faithful in translating the Hebrew. To do otherwise usurps the role of commentator rather than translator, which is what the producers of modern version are often guilty of doing!

Thought: “Humility is the hallmark of wisdom” (Jeremy Collier).

Prayer: Lord, give me a sound heart, not a swelled head.