Proverbs 11:12
Proverbs 11:12 in Multiple Translations
Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent.
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
He that despiseth his neighbor is void of wisdom; But a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
He who has a poor opinion of his neighbour has no sense, but a wise man keeps quiet.
People who run down their neighbors have no sense; someone who's sensible keeps quiet.
He that despiseth his neighbour, is destitute of wisedome: but a man of vnderstanding will keepe silence.
Whoso is despising his neighbour lacketh heart, And a man of understanding keepeth silence.
One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom, but a man of understanding holds his peace.
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbor: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
He that despiseth his friend, is mean of heart: but the wise man will hold his peace.
It is foolish to despise others; those who ◄have good sense/are wise► do not say anything to criticize others.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 11:12
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 11:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בָּז
לְ/רֵעֵ֥/הוּ
חֲסַר
לֵ֑ב
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
תְּבוּנ֣וֹת
יַחֲרִֽישׁ
בָּז
bûwz
H936
to despise
V-Qal
לְ/רֵעֵ֥/הוּ
rêaʻ
H7453
neighbor
Prep | N-ms | Suff
חֲסַר
châçêr
H2638
lacking
Adj
לֵ֑ב
lêb
H3820
heart
N-ms
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Conj | N-ms
תְּבוּנ֣וֹת
tâbûwn
H8394
understanding
N-fp
יַחֲרִֽישׁ
chârash
H2790
to plow/plot
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 11:12
בָּז
bûwz
H936
"to despise"
V-Qal
To despise or hold in contempt is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which is used in the Bible to describe showing disrespect or disdain for someone or something, as seen in Proverbs. It can also mean to consider something insignificant. This term is translated as contemn or despise in the KJV Bible.
Definition: 1) to despise, hold in contempt, hold as insignificant 1a) (Qal) to despise, show despite toward
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: contemn, despise, [idiom] utterly. See also: Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 23:9; Proverbs 6:30.
לְ/רֵעֵ֥/הוּ
rêaʻ
H7453
"neighbor"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
A neighbor or friend is what this word means, describing someone close to you. It can also refer to a companion, fellow citizen, or another person, and is often translated as brother or friend.
Definition: 1) friend, companion, fellow, another person 1a) friend, intimate 1b) fellow, fellow-citizen, another person (weaker sense) 1c) other, another (reciprocal phrase)
Usage: Occurs in 173 OT verses. KJV: brother, companion, fellow, friend, husband, lover, neighbour, [idiom] (an-) other. See also: Genesis 11:3; Job 42:7; Psalms 12:3.
חֲסַר
châçêr
H2638
"lacking"
Adj
Being in need or lacking something is what this word means. It describes a state of poverty or want, often used to describe people who are struggling. The Bible talks about lack and need in books like Isaiah and Jeremiah.
Definition: in need of, lacking, needy, in want of
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: destitute, fail, lack, have need, void, want. See also: 1 Samuel 21:16; Proverbs 10:21; Proverbs 6:32.
לֵ֑ב
lêb
H3820
"heart"
N-ms
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Conj | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
תְּבוּנ֣וֹת
tâbûwn
H8394
"understanding"
N-fp
Tabún means understanding or intelligence, implying skill or insight. It is translated as discretion, reason, or wisdom in the KJV Bible, referring to the act or faculty of understanding.
Definition: 1) understanding, intelligence 1a) the act of understanding 1a1) skill 1b) the faculty of understanding 1b1) intelligence, understanding, insight 1c) the object of knowledge 1d) teacher (personification)
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: discretion, reason, skilfulness, understanding, wisdom. See also: Exodus 31:3; Proverbs 8:1; Psalms 49:4.
יַחֲרִֽישׁ
chârash
H2790
"to plow/plot"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
This verb can mean to be quiet or silent, but also to scratch or engrave, like a farmer plowing a field. It is used in various contexts, including being silent or deaf. The KJV translates it in different ways, including 'cease' or 'hold peace'.
Definition: 1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut in, engrave 1a2) to plough 1a3) to devise 1b) (Niphal) to be ploughed 1c) (Hiphil) to plot evil
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] altogether, cease, conceal, be deaf, devise, ear, graven, imagine, leave off speaking, hold peace, plow(-er, man), be quiet, rest, practise secretly, keep silence, be silent, speak not a word, be still, hold tongue, worker. See also: Genesis 24:21; Psalms 28:1; Psalms 32:3.
Study Notes — Proverbs 11:12
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 11:12 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 11:12
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 11:12
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 11:12
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 11:12
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
- Sermons on Proverbs 11:12
Context — Dishonest Scales
10When the righteous thrive, the city rejoices, and when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.
11By the blessing of the upright a city is built up, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.
12Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent.
13A gossip reveals a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence. 14For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 10:19 | When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise. |
| 2 | 1 Peter 2:23 | When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly. |
| 3 | Luke 18:9 | To some who trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, He also told this parable: |
| 4 | Luke 16:14 | The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all of this and were scoffing at Jesus. |
| 5 | Proverbs 14:21 | He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who shows kindness to the poor. |
| 6 | Psalms 123:3–4 | Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy, for we have endured much contempt. We have endured much scorn from the arrogant, much contempt from the proud. |
| 7 | John 7:48–52 | “Have any of the rulers or Pharisees believed in Him? But this crowd that does not know the law, they are under a curse.” Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked, “Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” “Aren’t you also from Galilee?” they replied. “Look into it, and you will see that no prophet comes out of Galilee.” |
| 8 | Judges 9:27–29 | And after they had gone out into the fields, gathered grapes from their vineyards, and trodden them, they held a festival and went into the house of their god; and as they ate and drank, they cursed Abimelech. Then Gaal son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is he not the son of Jerubbaal, and is not Zebul his officer? You are to serve the men of Hamor, the father of Shechem. Why should we serve Abimelech? If only this people were under my authority, I would remove Abimelech; I would say to him, ‘Muster your army and come out!’” |
| 9 | Nehemiah 4:2–4 | before his associates and the army of Samaria, saying, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Can they restore the wall by themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they complete it in a day? Can they bring these burnt stones back to life from the mounds of rubble?” Then Tobiah the Ammonite, who was beside him, said, “If even a fox were to climb up on what they are building, it would break down their wall of stones!” Hear us, O God, for we are despised. Turn their scorn back upon their own heads, and let them be taken as plunder to a land of captivity. |
| 10 | Judges 9:38 | “Where is your gloating now?” Zebul replied. “You said, ‘Who is Abimelech that we should serve him?’ Are these not the people you ridiculed? Go out now and fight them!” |
Proverbs 11:12 Summary
This verse teaches us that it's not okay to look down on or disrespect the people around us, because that shows we're not thinking clearly. Instead, we should strive to be understanding and thoughtful in our interactions with others, as this is a key part of living a life that honors God (Matthew 22:39). By choosing to remain silent when needed, we can avoid causing harm and show that we're wise and caring. This doesn't mean we never speak up, but rather that we think before we speak, and consider how our words might affect those around us (James 1:19).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to show contempt for a neighbor?
Showing contempt for a neighbor means to have a low opinion of them or to scorn them, as seen in Proverbs 11:12, which warns that this behavior lacks judgment, and is contrary to the love commanded in Matthew 22:39, to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Why is it important to remain silent in certain situations?
Remaining silent, as mentioned in Proverbs 11:12, can be a sign of wisdom and understanding, as it allows us to reflect before speaking, and avoid causing harm to others, as warned in James 1:19, to be quick to listen and slow to speak.
How does this verse relate to our relationships with others?
This verse highlights the importance of treating our neighbors with respect and kindness, and being mindful of the impact of our words and actions on those around us, as taught in Romans 12:18, to live at peace with everyone, if possible.
What is the difference between a person who lacks judgment and a man of understanding?
A person who lacks judgment, as described in Proverbs 11:12, is one who acts impulsively or without considering the consequences of their actions, whereas a man of understanding is one who is wise, discerning, and thoughtful, as described in Proverbs 10:8, where the wise heart is said to accept commands.
Reflection Questions
- In what ways do I show contempt for my neighbors, and how can I change my behavior to be more loving and respectful?
- Think about a situation where remaining silent would have been the wise thing to do - what can you learn from that experience?
- How can I cultivate the quality of being a man or woman of understanding, and what are some practical steps I can take to become more thoughtful and discerning in my relationships with others?
- What are some ways I can demonstrate kindness and respect to those around me, and how can I make a positive impact on my community?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 11:12
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour,.... Not only in his heart, but by giving him opprobrious language; he speaks contemptibly of him, either because he thinks he is wiser than his
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 11:12
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. He that is void of wisdom (Hebrew, heart) despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
Despiseth his neighbour; which contempt he showeth, either, 1. By contemptuous or reproachful expressions of him; or, 2. By not asking or not regarding his advice, but trusting wholly to his own understanding. Holdeth his peace; either, 1. He forbeareth all such expressions against his neighbour. Or, 2. He silently and patiently bears these reproaches from his neighbour, and doth not render one reproach for another; wherein he showeth true wisdom. Or, 3. He desireth and hearkeneth to the counsels of others. Any of these ways the opposition is sufficiently evident.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
Proverbs 11:12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.Ver. 12. He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour.] Not remembering that he is his neighbour, cut out of the same cloth, the shears only going between, and as capable of heaven as himself, though never so poor, mean, deformed, or otherwise despicable. None but a fool will do so - none but he that hath a base and beggarly heart of his own, as the words signify. But a man of understanding holdeth his peace.] That is, Refraineth his tongue from such opprobrious language, speaketh the best he can of another, thinks with himself - “ Aut sumus, aut fuimus, aut possumus esse quod hic est. ” “ Or we are, or will be, or are able to be what this is.” Or, if himself be slighted or reviled, abiecta probra digno supplicio punit, festivo scilicet contemptu et oblivione, vel si tanti est, misericordia elevat. He knows it is to no purpose to wash off dirt with dirt, and is therefore as a dumb man, &c.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
Verse 12. He that is void of wisdom] A foolish man is generally abundant in his censures; he dwells on the defects of his neighbour, and is sure to bring them into the most prominent view. But a man of understanding - a prudent, sensible man, hides those defects wherever he can, and puts the most charitable construction on those which he cannot conceal.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 11:12
12. despiseth] i.e. shews his contempt openly, makes no effort to conceal it (μυκτηρίζει, LXX.), and so contrasts with the man of “wisdom” (heart, Heb.), who, whatever he thinks, keeps his thoughts to himself.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 11:12
None but the man “void of wisdom” will show contempt for those about him. The wise man, if he cannot admire or praise, will at least know how to be silent.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 11:12
12. Despiseth his neighbour — He that contemns his neighbour (for inferiority in any respect) lacks good sense, (Hebrew, heart,) but a man of intelligence keeps silent.
Sermons on Proverbs 11:12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Necessity to Cover by Elisabeth Elliot | Elisabeth Elliot emphasizes the importance of knowing when to remain silent, highlighting that not everything needs to be expressed in the name of honesty and openness. She draws a |
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(2006 Conference) 3.controlling Our Tongue by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of controlling our speech and the balance needed in various areas of our lives. It highlights the dangers of being imbalanced, focusing on sma |
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(The Tongue of a Disciple) the Satan Controlled Tongue by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of wise and thoughtful speech when delivering God's word. He compares preparing a message to preparing a meal for a special gu |
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Ger-18 the Kingdom of God by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the warm reception he always receives from the audience. He acknowledges that he may have already shared everything h |
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Holiness and Unclean Lips by Harold Vaughan | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of our words and how they reveal our true character. He warns that our own words will either stand against us or for us at th |
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Love Reconciles by Elizabeth Alliman | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ. They emphasize the need for believers to walk and work together, sprea |
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Guidelines to Freedom Part 8 - the Truth Matters by Alistair Begg | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenge of delivering things to people on time. He shares a strategy of overestimating the delivery time to avoid disappointing the reci |