Proverbs 16:22
Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly.
In context
19 It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud. 20 Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.
21 The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. 22 Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly. 23 The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. 24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
25 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 16:22 in the KJV
Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: But the instruction of fools is folly.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 16:22 in the NIV
Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.