Proverbs 26:5
Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.
In context
2 Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest. 3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools! 4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. 6 Sending a message by the hands of a fool is like cutting off one’s feet or drinking poison. 7 Like the useless legs of one who is lame is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. 8 Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a fool.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 26:5 in the KJV
Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in his own conceit.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 26:5 in the ESV
Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.