Proverbs 18:13 - He who gives answer before he hears, that is folly and shame to him.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 18:13

What does "Proverbs 18:13" mean?


Proverbs 18:13, "He who gives answer before he hears, that is folly and shame to him," means that it is foolish and disgraceful to respond or give advice without first fully listening to and understanding the situation or question being asked.

Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

"He who gives answer before he hears...": This refers to someone who interrupts, assumes they know what's being said, or offers their opinion without listening to the complete information being presented. They are quick to speak but slow to listen.

"...that is folly and shame to him.": The consequences of this behavior are:

Folly: It is foolish. The person demonstrates a lack of wisdom and good judgment. Their response is likely to be irrelevant, inaccurate, or even harmful because it's based on incomplete or misunderstood information.
Shame: It brings disgrace and embarrassment to the person. They appear ignorant, arrogant, or inconsiderate. Their eagerness to speak without listening can damage their reputation and credibility.

In essence, the verse is a warning against being quick to speak and slow to listen. It emphasizes the importance of active listening and understanding before offering a response, advice, or opinion. It promotes humility and thoughtfulness in communication.