Proverbs 16:21 - The wise in heart shall be called prudent. Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction.
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What does "Proverbs 16:21" mean?
Proverbs 16:21 essentially breaks down into two interconnected parts, highlighting the qualities and influence of a wise person:
"The wise in heart shall be called prudent."
"Wise in heart": This refers to someone who has inner wisdom, understanding, and discernment. It's not just about knowledge, but about applying that knowledge with good judgment and moral character.
"Shall be called prudent": "Prudent" means being wise, careful, and practical in one's actions and decisions. It suggests that a person who truly possesses wisdom will be recognized and regarded as someone who is thoughtful and makes sound choices. This could mean that their good decisions are well known, or it could simply mean that they have a reputation for being well-rounded in their perspective and how they lead their lives.
Overall meaning: This part suggests that those who possess wisdom internally will naturally exhibit prudence (good judgment and practicality) in their lives, and consequently, they will be recognized and respected for their prudence by others.
"Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction."
"Pleasantness of the lips": This refers to speaking in a kind, gracious, and agreeable manner. It suggests speaking with gentleness, tact, and a positive tone.
"Promotes instruction": This means that speaking kindly and agreeably makes others more receptive to learning and being taught. It is easier to teach someone, and for that someone to learn, if both parties can remain calm and understanding.
Overall meaning: This part emphasizes the importance of communication in the teaching and learning process. Speaking with kindness and gentleness makes others more willing to listen, learn, and accept instruction. The messenger is more effective when they communicate with grace.
Connection between the two parts:
The verse suggests that wisdom (being wise in heart) leads to prudence in action, and one aspect of that prudence is communicating in a pleasant and agreeable way. This, in turn, fosters a better environment for teaching and learning.
In essence, the verse implies:
True wisdom leads to sound judgment and practical living.
Kind and gracious communication is an essential aspect of wisdom.
Gentle and agreeable speech is vital for effective instruction and learning.
The verse encourages both the cultivation of inner wisdom and the development of skillful and kind communication as tools for personal growth and benefiting others.
Proverbs 16:21 - The wise in heart shall be called prudent. Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction.
What does "Proverbs 16:21" mean?
Proverbs 16:21 essentially breaks down into two interconnected parts, highlighting the qualities and influence of a wise person:
"The wise in heart shall be called prudent."
"Wise in heart": This refers to someone who has inner wisdom, understanding, and discernment. It's not just about knowledge, but about applying that knowledge with good judgment and moral character.
"Shall be called prudent": "Prudent" means being wise, careful, and practical in one's actions and decisions. It suggests that a person who truly possesses wisdom will be recognized and regarded as someone who is thoughtful and makes sound choices. This could mean that their good decisions are well known, or it could simply mean that they have a reputation for being well-rounded in their perspective and how they lead their lives.
Overall meaning: This part suggests that those who possess wisdom internally will naturally exhibit prudence (good judgment and practicality) in their lives, and consequently, they will be recognized and respected for their prudence by others.
"Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction."
"Pleasantness of the lips": This refers to speaking in a kind, gracious, and agreeable manner. It suggests speaking with gentleness, tact, and a positive tone.
"Promotes instruction": This means that speaking kindly and agreeably makes others more receptive to learning and being taught. It is easier to teach someone, and for that someone to learn, if both parties can remain calm and understanding.
Overall meaning: This part emphasizes the importance of communication in the teaching and learning process. Speaking with kindness and gentleness makes others more willing to listen, learn, and accept instruction. The messenger is more effective when they communicate with grace.
Connection between the two parts:
The verse suggests that wisdom (being wise in heart) leads to prudence in action, and one aspect of that prudence is communicating in a pleasant and agreeable way. This, in turn, fosters a better environment for teaching and learning.
In essence, the verse implies:
True wisdom leads to sound judgment and practical living.
Kind and gracious communication is an essential aspect of wisdom.
Gentle and agreeable speech is vital for effective instruction and learning.
The verse encourages both the cultivation of inner wisdom and the development of skillful and kind communication as tools for personal growth and benefiting others.