Bible students are well aware of the emphasis given to wisdom in the book of Proverbs. However, not only is wisdom exalted and encouraged, but numerous references are made to fools. Very often, a contrast between the wise and the foolish is given in the same verse. Consider how fools are described in this inspired book.
Fools Oppose Gaining Wisdom.
“…fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Prov. 1:7). They don’t think they need either one, but already have all the answers. They also believe that staying ignorant is the easy way—yet they often learn too late what fools they have been. Some even die for lack of wisdom (Prov. 10:21).
Fools Bring Grief to Their Loved Ones.
“…A foolish son is the grief of his mother” (Prov. 10:1). Children often think they must try the vices of the world, but in doing so, they bring shame to their parents. “A fool despises his father’s instruction” (Prov. 15:5).
Fools Spread Malicious Gossip.
“…Whoever spreads slander is a fool” (Prov. 10:18). They imagine that tearing down another’s reputation makes them look better. They don’t realize such actions harm themselves as much, or more, than the one they slander.
Fools Do Evil for Entertainment.
“To do evil is like sport to a fool…” (Prov. 10:23). Their joy comes not from doing good, helping the needy, or comforting the hurting, but from abusing and taking advantage. They even “mock at sin” (Prov. 14:9).
Fools Are Blind to the Truth.
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes” (Prov. 12:15). No matter what is said, he will not listen. He is a “know-it-all.” “He who trusts in his own heart is a fool” (Prov. 28:26).
Fools Are Hot-Tempered.
“A fool’s wrath is known at once” (Prov. 12:16). With a proverbial “chip on his shoulder,” he dares anyone to cross him. “…a fool rages and is self-confident” (Prov. 14:16).
Fools Destroy Their Friends.
“…the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Prov. 13:20). Even fools have influence, and they delight in dragging their friends down with them.
Fools Are Troublemakers.
“It is honorable for a man to stop striving, since any fool can start a quarrel” (Prov. 20:3). Peace is not their joy; conflict and bickering bring them satisfaction.
Fools Never Learn.
“As a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly” (Prov. 26:11). Though hurt by their own mistakes, they return to them again and again. Solomon concludes: “Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it. But the correction of fools is folly” (Prov. 16:22).
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