Proverbs 26:6
He that sends a message by a foolish messenger 1 Procures for himself a reproach from his own ways. 1
Updated 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, 1 Lest he seem wise in his own conceit. 1
7As well take away the motion of the legs, 1 As transgression from the mouth of fools. 1
Cross References
Proverbs 10:26As a sour grape is hurtful to the teeth, and smoke to the eyes, 1 So iniquity hurts those that practice it. 1
Proverbs 25:13As a fall of snow in the time of harvest is good against heat, 1 So a faithful messenger refreshes those that send him; 1 For he helps the souls of his employers. 1
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 →