Proverbs 17:28
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise: and he that shuts his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
American King James Version (AKJV)
Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise: and he that shuts his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
American Standard Version (ASV)
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise; When he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
Even the foolish man, when he keeps quiet, is taken to be wise: when his lips are shut he is credited with good sense.
Webster's Revision
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
World English Bible
Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.
English Revised Version (ERV)
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: when he shutteth his lips, he is esteemed as prudent.
Clarke's Proverbs 17:28 Bible Commentary
Even a fool - He is counted wise as to that particular. He may know that he cannot speak well, and he has sense enough to keep from speaking. He is, as to that particular, a wise fool.
A man may be golden-mouthed and silver-tongued in eloquence; but to know when and where to speak and to be silent, is better than diamonds. But who that thinks he can speak well can refrain from speaking? His tongue has no rest.
Barnes's Proverbs 17:28 Bible Commentary
Is esteemed - Or, "is" (simply). The maxim would imply that silence is in any case good.