Proverbs 17:27
A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit.
Berean Standard Bible
In The King James Version
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.
In Context
26It is surely not good to punish the innocent or to flog a noble for his honesty.
28Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.
Cross References
Proverbs 10:19When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
Proverbs 15:28The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil.
Ecclesiastes 9:17The calm words of the wise are heeded over the shouts of a ruler among fools.
James 3:2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 17:27
26 Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity. In differences that happen between magistrates and subjects, and such differences often arise, 1. Let magistrates see to it that they never punish the just, that they be in no case a terror to good works, for that is to abuse their power and betray that great trust which is reposed in them. It is not good, that is, it is a very evil thing, and will end ill, whatever end they may aim at in it. When princes become tyrants and persecutors their… Read the whole commentary →