Bible Commentary

Proverbs 18:2

The Pulpit Commentary on Proverbs 18:2

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

A fool hath no delight in understanding. This may mean that he takes no pleasure in the wisdom of others, is self-opinionated; or, it may be, does not care for understanding in itself, apart from the use which he can make of it.

Vulgate, "The fool receives not the words of wisdom;" Septuagint, "A man of no sense has no need of wisdom." To try to teach a fool is to cast pearls before swine, and to give that which is holy unto dogs.

But that his heart may discover itself; i.e. his only delight is in revealing his heart, displaying his un-wisdom and his foolish thoughts, as in ; ; . He thinks that thus he is showing himself superior to others, and benefiting the world at large.

The LXX. gives the reason, "For rather by folly he is led."

Recommended reading

More for Proverbs 18:2

Continue with other commentaries and DiscipleDeck content connected to this verse, chapter, or topic.