Proverbs 26:6
He that sends a message by a foolish messenger procures for himself a reproach from his own ways.
Brenton Septuagint
In The King James Version
He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
In Context
5Yet answer a fool according to his folly, lest he seem wise in his own conceit.
7As well take away the motion of the legs, as transgression from the mouth of fools.
Cross References
Proverbs 10:26As a sour grape is hurtful to the teeth, and smoke to the eyes, so iniquity hurts those that practise it.
Proverbs 25:13As a fall of snow in the time of harvest is good against heat, so a faithful messenger refreshes those that send him; for he helps the souls of his employers.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 26:5-6
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit. See here the noble security of the scripture-style, which seems to contradict itself, but really does not. Wise men have need to be directed how to deal with fools; and they have never more need of wisdom than in dealing with such, to know when to keep silence and when to speak, for there may be a time for both. 1. In some cases a wise man will not set his wit to… Read the whole commentary →