Proverbs 26:9 kjv

As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouths of fools.

Proverbs 26:9 nkjv

Like a thorn that goes into the hand of a drunkard Is a proverb in the mouth of fools.

Proverbs 26:9 niv

Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

Proverbs 26:9 esv

Like a thorn that goes up into the hand of a drunkard is a proverb in the mouth of fools.

Proverbs 26:9 nlt

A proverb in the mouth of a fool
is like a thorny branch brandished by a drunk.

Proverbs 26 verses

Proverbs 26 9 Meaning

Proverbs 26:9 graphically compares a proverb spoken by fools to a thorn-bush wielded by a drunkard. It powerfully illustrates the danger and ineffectiveness when profound wisdom, embodied by the proverb, is manipulated by someone devoid of discernment, moral judgment, or self-control, like a fool. Just as an inebriated individual risks self-inflicted wounds or harming others with a sharp, uncontrollable object, so a fool distorts, misapplies, or utterly negates the true meaning and impact of a wise saying through their flawed understanding or perverse conduct. This renders the proverb not only useless but potentially damaging, ultimately devaluing the wisdom itself.

Proverbs 26 9 Context

Proverbs 26 belongs to a collection of "Solomon's proverbs copied by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah." Verses 1-12 specifically focus on the theme of fools, exploring the inherent difficulty and varied approaches to dealing with them. This section contains several paradoxical sayings about responding to folly (e.g., verses 4-5 regarding answering or not answering a fool). Proverbs 26:9 presents a vivid image of the profound incompatibility between valuable wisdom and the inherent nature of a fool. It underscores that attempting to impart or expect proper handling of wisdom from someone who despises instruction (a core characteristic of the fool, k'sil in Hebrew) is not only futile but potentially detrimental to the wisdom itself. In ancient Israel, wisdom was not just intellectual knowledge but practical skill and moral discernment rooted in the fear of the LORD. Fools, in this context, were seen as individuals whose willful rebellion against God's ways led to disastrous decisions and behaviors, rendering them unable to grasp or live by true wisdom. This verse cautions against the potential harm and degradation that occurs when sacred or profound truths are wielded by those incapable of their proper use.

Proverbs 26 9 Word analysis

• Like (כִּ֤י, ki): A comparative particle, introducing a simile that highlights an exact parallel.

• a thorn-bush (חֹחַ, choach): Refers to a thorny plant, thistle, or briar. This object is intrinsically sharp, dangerous, and designed to prick or tear. It is difficult to control and causes pain or damage if not handled with care. Symbolizes something dangerous when improperly handled.

• that goes into (עָלָ֣ה, 'alah): Literally "ascends" or "comes upon/enters." It suggests not merely holding, but the aggressive potential of the thorn-bush to pierce or embed itself, implying invasive or uncontrolled action.

• the hand (בְּיַד־, b'yad-): Represents control, action, and immediate contact. It signifies the primary means by which a person interacts with an object.

• of a drunkard (שִׁכּוֹר, shikor): A person who is intoxicated, characterized by impaired judgment, loss of coordination, instability, and a diminished capacity for rational thought or careful action. Their inability to control their own faculties makes them inherently dangerous when given sharp objects.

• so is (וּמָשָׁל֙, u-mashal): The וּ (u-) acts as a conjunction "and" or "so," signaling the direct comparison.

• a proverb (מָשָׁל֙, mashal): A profound, condensed statement of truth, a maxim, or a similitude. It embodies wisdom that is meant to guide, enlighten, and instruct, requiring discernment and a receptive heart for proper application.

• in the mouth (בְּפִֽי־, b'pi-): The organ of speech and expression. This indicates how the proverb is delivered or articulated by the fool. It could be quoted, retold, or attempted to be applied.

• of fools (כְסִלִים, k'silim): The plural of כְּסִיל (kesil). In Proverbs, a kesil is not simply unintelligent but a morally corrupt individual who willfully despises wisdom, resists instruction, and acts without ethical foresight. Their folly is deep-seated in their character, making them impervious to or distorting of true wisdom.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "Like a thorn-bush that goes into the hand of a drunkard": This segment vividly portrays uncontrolled hazard and imminent damage. A sharp object coupled with someone utterly lacking self-control and clear perception inevitably leads to chaotic, harmful outcomes. This highlights a scenario where the intrinsic danger of the object is actualized by the handler's incapacity.
  • "so is a proverb in the mouth of fools": This directly parallels the previous imagery, showing that wisdom, though inherently good and constructive, becomes dangerous or useless when expressed or attempted to be applied by those who are morally and intellectually undiscerning. The fool's misuse, distortion, or simple disregard of the proverb through their own behavior damages the reputation of the wisdom, renders its true message inert, or even uses it to rationalize their own folly, just as a thorn causes harm when wielded carelessly.

Proverbs 26 9 Bonus section

• The analogy subtly highlights the reciprocal nature of understanding: just as the drunkard's state impacts the thorn, the fool's nature impacts the proverb.
• This verse can be understood as a practical guideline for discipleship: one must first cultivate a receptive and humble heart before profound wisdom can be effectively integrated and utilized.
• It serves as a counterpoint to the idea that mere verbal knowledge or repetition of truth equates to genuine understanding or spiritual growth, especially for those resistant to moral uprightness.
• The "mouth of fools" could refer to their using proverbs flippantly, in jest, to boast, or as a manipulative tool without internalizing the truth.

Proverbs 26 9 Commentary

Proverbs 26:9 delivers a powerful warning about the profound incongruity between true wisdom and those who are inherently foolish. The vivid analogy of a thorn-bush in a drunkard’s hand emphasizes a critical point: just as an intoxicated person cannot properly control a dangerous object, making harm inevitable, so too is a wise proverb corrupted and rendered impotent, or even damaging, when handled by a fool. The "fool" (Hebrew: kesil) in Proverbs is not merely ignorant but morally bankrupt, characterized by a willful resistance to divine instruction and an embrace of their own misguided ways. When such a person speaks a proverb, they do not truly comprehend its depth or are incapable of applying its truth to their life. Their speech may twist its meaning, use it to justify their folly, or simply demonstrate a complete disconnect between the proverb’s wisdom and their ungodly behavior. The proverb ceases to be a tool for enlightenment and becomes a dangerous plaything, disrespecting the truth it embodies. This verse instructs the wise on the futility of trying to impart profound truth where there is no receptivity and reminds us that wisdom's efficacy relies not just on its content, but on the character and heart of the one who speaks and receives it.