22 Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.[1]

Other Translations of Proverbs 16:22-23

King James Version

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teacheth teacheth: Heb. maketh wise his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

English Standard Version

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.

The Message

22 True intelligence is a spring of fresh water, while fools sweat it out the hard way.

23 They make a lot of sense, these wise folks; whenever they speak, their reputation increases.

New King James Version

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it. But the correction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips.

New Living Translation

22 Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it, but discipline is wasted on fools.

23 From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 16:22-23

Commentary on Proverbs 16:22

(Read Proverbs 16:22)

As waters to a thirsty land, so is a wise man to his friends and neighbours.

Commentary on Proverbs 16:23

(Read Proverbs 16:23)

The wise man's self-knowledge, always suggests something proper to be spoken to others.