We become enraged from the one who unfairly blames united states in a department-wide mail. Or we feeling embarrassed whenever all of our entrusted information gets an engaging supper party topic. Self-justification incites a response. But should we reply to the perpetrators of these foolishness?

Proverbs 26 says no—and yes: “Answer maybe not a fool relating to their folly, lest your wind up as him your self. Answer a fool relating to their folly, lest he be a good idea in his own eyes” (26:4–5). While we think more than whether we have to actually address the trick, it’s beneficial to understand who the author from the publication of Proverbs is in fact writing about. Exactly what terms or actions define a fool?

Comprehend the history on the Word

Using the ESV English-Hebrew Reverse Interlinear, we discover your Hebrew keyword behind “fool” try kesil (????). Utilizing something like the unique International Dictionary of Old-Testament Theology and Exegesis, we can see that kesil is related to the Arabic kasila, indicating “sluggish,” and the Akkadian saklu, which means “stupid.” We find this comprehension in Proverbs 14:7, which informs us that facts won’t come from the lips of a fool. Continue reading →