Proverbs 17:27
He that spareth his words hath knowledge; and he that husbandeth his spirit is a man of discernment.
JPS TaNaKH 1917
In The King James Version
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.
In Context
26To punish also the righteous is not good, nor to strike the noble for their uprightness.
Cross References
Proverbs 10:19In the multitude of words there wanteth not transgression; but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
Proverbs 15:28The heart of the righteous studieth to answer; but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.
Ecclesiastes 9:17The words of the wise spoken in quiet are more acceptable than the cry of a ruler among fools.
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 →