Proverbs 17:27 kjv

He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

Proverbs 17:27 nkjv

He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.

Proverbs 17:27 niv

The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

Proverbs 17:27 esv

Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.

Proverbs 17:27 nlt

A truly wise person uses few words;
a person with understanding is even-tempered.

Proverbs 17 verses

Proverbs 17 27 Meaning

Proverbs 17:27 states that a person who carefully controls their speech demonstrates true knowledge, and one who maintains a calm and composed disposition is recognized as having profound understanding. This verse emphasizes the connection between self-restraint in communication and emotional stability, revealing inner wisdom and discernment.

Proverbs 17 27 Context

Proverbs chapter 17 is a collection of concise, independent maxims concerning wise and foolish conduct, character traits, and the dynamics of various relationships. The verses frequently present antithetical parallelism, contrasting the characteristics and outcomes of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Verse 27, in particular, flows into verse 28, which also addresses the theme of silence and its perception. This specific verse, along with others in Proverbs, stresses practical wisdom for navigating daily life and avoiding pitfalls. It aligns with the broader wisdom tradition found in the Bible, which emphasizes discernment, self-control, and the importance of actions and words flowing from an inner heart committed to righteousness. The historical context for Proverbs is ancient Israel, where oral tradition and communal instruction were vital for passing on ethical and moral principles necessary for societal harmony and individual flourishing under God's covenant. The book indirectly polemicizes against impulsiveness, talkativeness, and quick temper, common traits that often led to societal conflict and personal ruin, promoting instead a measured, thoughtful approach rooted in godly wisdom.

Proverbs 17 27 Word analysis

• Whoever restrains (Hebrew: חוֹשֵׂךְ, ḥôšēḵ): From the verb ḥāśaḵ, meaning "to restrain," "to hold back," "to keep back," "to withhold." It implies a conscious act of discipline and control. This is not accidental silence, but an intentional suppression or moderation. It signifies a person who chooses not to speak impulsively or excessively.
• his words (Hebrew: אֲמָרָיו, ʾămārāyw): Refers to spoken utterances, communication. The plural indicates the general body of one's speech or specific verbal expressions. The focus is on the quantity and quality of what is said.
• has knowledge (Hebrew: דַּעַת, daʿaṯ): Denotes intellectual and practical understanding, discernment, and moral insight. In the biblical sense, it's more than mere facts; it's experiential knowledge, reflecting moral wisdom and sound judgment. The ability to restrain words comes from discerning when and what to speak.
• and he who has a cool spirit (Hebrew: קַר־רוּחַ, qar-rûaḥ): Literally "cold spirit." This idiomatic expression refers to a calm, composed, serene, and unruffled disposition. It implies someone who is not easily agitated, angered, or moved by passion. It contrasts with a "hasty" or "hot" spirit, which indicates impetuosity and anger.
• is a man of understanding (Hebrew: תְבוּנָה, ṯĕḇûnâ): Signifies deep insight, practical discernment, the ability to perceive connections, grasp complex matters, and make wise judgments. It is knowledge applied effectively to situations. It implies maturity and clear perception.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• "Whoever restrains his words has knowledge": This phrase connects measured speech with intellectual and moral insight. A person who exercises control over their tongue demonstrates not just self-control but also discernment – they know what to say, when to say it, and often, what not to say. This suggests an inner reservoir of wisdom that guides their communication. The lack of impulsive speech often indicates careful thought and wise consideration, distinguishing them from the garrulous fool.
• "and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding": This second parallel phrase links emotional composure and self-possession with deep insight and practical discernment. A "cool spirit" implies patience, even-temperament, and freedom from uncontrolled anger or reactivity. Such a person is not driven by fleeting emotions but by considered thought, allowing them to perceive situations clearly and apply understanding judiciously. This internal tranquility is a sign of profound insight into life and human nature. The dual clauses reinforce the idea that wise individuals possess both verbal restraint and emotional self-mastery.

Proverbs 17 27 Bonus section

The "cool spirit" described in this verse stands in stark contrast to the volatile, "hot spirit" often associated with foolishness in Proverbs (e.g., Prov 14:17, 14:29, 29:22). This spiritual temperament of calmness and self-possession is highly valued throughout Scripture, even resonating with the New Testament concept of the fruit of the Spirit, specifically "patience" (makrothymia) and "self-control" (enkrateia), found in Gal 5:22-23. Such virtues are not naturally acquired but cultivated through conscious effort and, for the believer, through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, the verse indirectly highlights the dangers of uncontrolled speech—gossip, slander, foolish talk—which frequently originate from a lack of knowledge and a volatile temper. Thus, it advocates for a life lived with intentional thought and emotional discipline, rooted in God-given wisdom, leading to peace and righteous living.

Proverbs 17 27 Commentary

Proverbs 17:27 encapsulates a core principle of biblical wisdom: true sagacity manifests in disciplined speech and composed demeanor. The verse proposes a direct link between external conduct and internal character, arguing that thoughtful communication stems from knowledge, and emotional serenity from understanding. A person who can hold their tongue demonstrates a valuable quality that goes beyond mere politeness; it reflects a capacity for discernment and the avoidance of hasty, ill-conceived utterances that often lead to strife or regret. Similarly, the individual described as having a "cool spirit" exhibits patience and self-control, refusing to be swayed by sudden emotions or provocations. This calm disposition is not passive indifference but an active mastery over one's inner world, enabling sound judgment and wise action. Ultimately, the verse commends those who possess internal discipline that regulates their words and tempers, thereby reflecting true spiritual and practical wisdom that enriches life and relationships.

Examples:

• In a heated discussion, choosing to listen thoughtfully instead of immediately countering.
• When criticized unjustly, responding with calm reason rather than emotional outburst.
• Before giving advice, pausing to consider the situation thoroughly and speaking only what is necessary and helpful.