Proverbs 16:21-23
GOD’S WORD Translation
21 The person who is truly wise is called understanding,
and speaking sweetly helps others learn.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to the one who has it,
but stubborn fools punish themselves with their stupidity.
23 A wise person’s heart controls his speech,
and what he says helps others learn.
Proverbs 16:21-23
King James Version
21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
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 his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
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Proverbs 16:21-23
English Standard Version
21 The wise of heart is called discerning,
and sweetness of speech (A)increases persuasiveness.
22 Good sense is (B)a fountain of life to him who has it,
but the instruction of fools is folly.
23 (C)The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious
and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
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The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025.
