Proverbs 17:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Why should a fool have money in his hand to buy wisdom when he has no sense?

NIV: Why should fools have money in hand to buy wisdom, when they are not able to understand it?

NASB: Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, When he has no sense?

CSB: Why does a fool have money in his hand with no intention of buying wisdom?

NLT: It is senseless to pay to educate a fool, since he has no heart for learning.

KJV: Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?

NKJV: Why is there in the hand of a fool the purchase price of wisdom, Since he has no heart for it?

An earlier proverb in this chapter noted how those who offer bribes might begin to rely on them too much (Proverbs 17:8). Others noted that material goods have no value compared to godly wisdom (Proverbs 16:16). Here, as well, the theme is mistakenly believing money can purchase spirituality. Proverbs defines a "fool" as someone who rejects God's truth (Proverbs 1:7). For such a person, it's pointless to try to buy wisdom—literally or figuratively (Proverbs 23:23)—since they're not open to learning (Proverbs 17:10).

The beginning of wisdom is reverent respect—"fear"—of God (Proverbs 9:10). Without that, no amount of money can purchase true wisdom. The fool who tries to buy wisdom is like a rich man spending money at an expensive university while refusing to study or attend classes. Paul describes a similar type of fool. He writes in 2 Timothy 3:7 that they are "always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth." He insists they are "corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith" (2 Timothy 3:8), and adds: "they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all" (2 Timothy 3:9).

Proverbs 17:7–21 continues Solomon's wise observations. These remarks touch on speech, fools, strife, true friendship, co-signing loans, love of sinning, and what a fool can expect thanks to his foolishness. Numerous comments involve errors that lead to arguments and division. Some observations make a statement and then add to it, others present vivid contrasts.

This portion of Solomon's wise sayings involves several recurring themes. Among these are the importance of controlling one's words: hasty or spiteful language can do great harm. He also notes how wisdom and foolishness tend to be self-perpetuating. Wise people seek wisdom, foolish people seem immune to it. Other important topics are the impact of ungodly children on a family and the value of integrity and common sense.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.