Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the term "fool" is often used to describe a person who lacks wisdom, understanding, or reverence for God. The Scriptures provide numerous warnings about the dangers of associating with fools and the importance of avoiding their influence.
Characteristics of FoolsThe Bible paints a vivid picture of the characteristics of fools. In
Proverbs 1:7, it is stated, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse highlights a fundamental trait of fools: their disdain for wisdom and correction. They are often characterized by their rejection of Godly instruction and their inclination towards folly.
Proverbs 18:2 further describes fools: "A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions." This suggests that fools are more interested in expressing their own views than in seeking true understanding or knowledge.
Consequences of FoolishnessThe Bible warns of the dire consequences that accompany foolish behavior.
Proverbs 13:20 states, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." This verse underscores the danger of associating with fools, as their influence can lead to personal harm and misfortune.
In
Ecclesiastes 10:1, the impact of foolishness is likened to a small amount of folly outweighing wisdom and honor: "As dead flies bring a stench to the perfumer’s oil, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor." This metaphor illustrates how even a small amount of foolishness can tarnish one's reputation and achievements.
Avoiding FoolsThe Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of avoiding fools.
Proverbs 14:7 advises, "Stay away from a foolish man; you will gain no knowledge from his speech." This directive emphasizes the futility of engaging with fools, as their words offer no true wisdom or insight.
In
2 Corinthians 6:14, believers are cautioned against forming close associations with those who do not share their values: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" While this verse primarily addresses relationships with unbelievers, it also underscores the broader principle of avoiding those whose influence may lead one away from righteousness.
The Call to WisdomThe call to avoid fools is ultimately a call to pursue wisdom and righteousness.
Proverbs 4:5-7 encourages believers to "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding."
By heeding the biblical admonition to avoid fools, believers are better positioned to cultivate a life marked by wisdom, understanding, and a deep reverence for God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Proverbs 9:6Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.
Torrey's Topical TextbookProverbs 14:7
Go from the presence of a foolish man, when you perceive not in him the lips of knowledge.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Christ the Only Rest for the Weary and Heavy-Laden
... against the disciple of Christ, and esteemestthem madmen,fools, schismatics, and...
open to his wrath and indignation, and would willinglyavoid them; who hate...
Under King John
... to fear ever, lest when one cannotavoid them, one should... applauded and some wept,
and he toldthem how worthily... shoulder to grin back at thefools, his friends...
Proofs from the Apostolic Writings, that Jesus Christ was one and...
... certainly do with their tongue confess one Jesus Christ, makefools of themselves...
disciple, in his Epistle already mentioned, commands us toavoid them, when he...
The World Our Enemy.
... the wise men of the world, in God's eyes, were butfools, for they... yield to its
principles, yet they speak strongly against men of the world, andavoid them....
A Common Mistake and Lame Excuse
... that there is plenty of time toavoid them and to... up as a screen betweenthem and
God, betweenthem and what... that, having it, they should be suchfools as to...
The Care of the Soul Urged as the one Thing Needful
... they who neglect God and their own souls, are spoken of asfools, as if... mind, but
with all your artifice and all your resolution can you entirelyavoid them?...
On the Last Judgment and the Resurrection, Hell, Purgatory, and...
... contrition forthem, and resolving toavoid them for the... in the next world, He rewards
them chiefly in... these saints were sometimes consideredfools and treated...
On Doing Good to the Body of Our Neighbor.
...Fools, again, whoavoid the exercise of... is a danger lest, in using the words of the
learned, we harden the souls of the unlearned by leadingthem away from...
Jesus, Pilate and Herod.
... Then Herod laughed and said, "Now that proves indeed that he is a king offools."....
He has already suffered by his follies and willavoid them in the future....
A Digression Upon the Imperfection of the virtues of the Pagans.
... and kill the just in order toavoid the shame and... or monstrous, we castthem off,
and abandonthem." So that... themselves to be wise they becamefools, and their...
Resources
How does the Bible describe a fool? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a fool according to the book of Proverbs? | GotQuestions.orgDo Proverbs 26:4 and 26:5 contradict? How can both verses be true? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
