A shrewd man keeps his knowledge to himselfThis phrase highlights the virtue of discretion and wisdom. In biblical context, shrewdness is often associated with prudence and the ability to make sound judgments. The Hebrew word for "shrewd" can also mean "prudent" or "sensible," suggesting a person who is wise in handling information. This aligns with the teachings in
Proverbs 10:19, which advises restraint in speech. The cultural context of ancient Israel valued wisdom and understanding, often associating them with righteousness and godliness. The idea of keeping knowledge to oneself can be seen as a form of humility and self-control, qualities that are esteemed throughout Scripture. Jesus exemplified this in His ministry, often choosing when to reveal certain truths and to whom, as seen in
Matthew 13:10-11, where He explains why He speaks in parables.
but a foolish heart proclaims its folly
In contrast, this phrase describes the behavior of a fool, characterized by a lack of discernment and an eagerness to speak without understanding. The "foolish heart" in biblical terms often refers to a person who lacks spiritual insight and moral integrity. The heart, in Hebrew thought, is the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. Thus, a foolish heart is one that is not aligned with God's wisdom. This is echoed inProverbs 15:2, where the tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. The cultural and historical context of the time placed a high value on wisdom literature, which often contrasted the wise and the foolish. The proclamation of folly can be seen as a warning against pride and arrogance, traits that lead to one's downfall, as illustrated inProverbs 16:18. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all things.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Shrewd ManRepresents a wise and discerning individual who exercises discretion and prudence in sharing knowledge.
2.
Foolish HeartSymbolizes a person lacking wisdom, who is quick to speak without understanding or consideration of the consequences.
Teaching Points
Value of DiscretionDiscretion is a hallmark of wisdom. A shrewd person understands the power of words and chooses when and how to share knowledge.
Guarding the HeartThe heart is the wellspring of life. A foolish heart reveals its folly through careless words, indicating the need for spiritual vigilance and self-control.
Wisdom in SilenceSometimes, silence is more powerful than words. Knowing when to speak and when to remain silent is a sign of maturity and understanding.
Impact of WordsWords have the power to build up or tear down. A wise person uses words to edify and encourage, while a fool's words often lead to harm and misunderstanding.
Cultivating PrudencePrudence involves foresight and careful judgment. It is cultivated through prayer, study of Scripture, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 12:23?
2.How can we practice discretion as described in Proverbs 12:23 in daily life?
3.What does Proverbs 12:23 teach about the value of guarding knowledge?
4.How does Proverbs 12:23 compare with James 1:19 on speech and wisdom?
5.In what ways can we avoid the folly of "proclaiming foolishness"?
6.How can Proverbs 12:23 guide our conversations in a social media context?
7.How does Proverbs 12:23 define the difference between wisdom and foolishness?
8.What does Proverbs 12:23 suggest about the value of discretion in communication?
9.How can Proverbs 12:23 be applied to modern social media usage?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 12?
11.What defines a biblical proverb?
12.Can you heal yourself, doctor?
13.Proverbs 9:6 urges abandoning foolishness to truly live. How can 'foolishness' be objectively defined or measured in a modern, evidence-based society?
14.What does the Bible say about mental health?What Does Proverbs 12:23 Mean
A shrewd man• Scripture paints the shrewd—or prudent—as someone who thinks ahead, weighs motives, and honors God by wise choices (Proverbs 13:16; 14:8).
• This is not cunning deceit but thoughtful discernment like Joseph storing grain before famine (Genesis 41:33-36).
• Jesus commends being “shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16), showing that careful judgment and integrity belong together.
Keeps his knowledge to himself• “Knowledge” here includes insights, plans, and understanding gained from God’s Word and life experience.
• The prudent restrain their tongue, sharing only what builds up or protects others (Proverbs 17:27; 21:23;James 1:19).
• Silence is not secrecy for selfish gain but stewardship; some truths are best delivered at the right time to the right audience (Ecclesiastes 3:7;Luke 2:19).
But a foolish heart• Scripture locates folly not merely in the mouth but in the inner person—“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’” (Psalm 14:1).
• A foolish heart is impulsive, self-focused, and dismissive of godly counsel (Proverbs 1:7; 28:26).
• Because the heart drives speech (Luke 6:45), folly festers within before it erupts outward.
Proclaims its folly• The fool cannot help broadcasting empty boasts, rash opinions, and unrighteous desires (Proverbs 15:2; 18:2).
• What should remain unspoken is loudly advertised, exposing the speaker’s lack of sense (Ecclesiastes 10:3, 12-14).
• This public display of ignorance often damages relationships, invites rebuke, and dishonors the Lord (Proverbs 10:8, 14; 29:11).
summaryProverbs 12:23 contrasts two heart conditions revealed by speech. The prudent, guided by reverence for God, guard their words, releasing knowledge only when it serves His purposes. The fool, driven by a reckless heart, blurts out self-exalting nonsense, showcasing immaturity and sin. Following Christ calls us to the path of prudence—letting wisdom govern both heart and tongue.
(23)
A prudent man concealeth knowledge.--Till the right opportunity for bringing it forth presents itself; while "the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness," cannot help blurting out and displaying its ignorance and folly, which it mistakes for wisdom.
Verse 23. -
A prudent man concealeth knowledge (ver. 16;
Proverbs 10:14). He is not wont to utter unadvisedly what he knows, but waits for fitting opportunity, either from humility or wise caution. Of course, in some cases reticence is sinful. The LXX., reading the passage differently, renders, "A prudent man is the seat of intelligence (
θρόνος αἰσθήσεως)."
The heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness (
Proverbs 13:16;
Proverbs 15:2). A foolish man cannot help exposing the stupid ideas that arise in his mind, which he considers wisdom. Septuagint, "The heart of fools shall meet with curses."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
A shrewdעָ֭רוּם(‘ā·rūm)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6175:Crafty, shrewd, sensiblemanאָדָ֣ם(’ā·ḏām)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120:Ruddy, a human beingkeepsכֹּ֣סֶה(kō·seh)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3680:To plump, fill up hollows, to coverhis knowledge {to himself},דָּ֑עַת(dā·‘aṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1847:Knowledgebut a foolishכְּ֝סִילִ֗ים(kə·sî·lîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3684:Stupid fellow, dullard, foolheartוְלֵ֥ב(wə·lêḇ)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3820:The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centreproclaimsיִקְרָ֥א(yiq·rā)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7121:To call, proclaim, readits folly.אִוֶּֽלֶת׃(’iw·we·leṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 200:Silliness
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 12:23 A prudent man keeps his knowledge (Prov. Pro Pr) 
