Proverbs 11:12 - Exposition

He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbor; uses words of contempt about his neighbour. Septuagint, "sneers at his fellow citizens." The following clause indicates that contemptuous language is chiefly intended. Holdeth his peace. An intelligent man is slow to condemn, makes allowance for others' difficulties, and, if he cannot approve, at least knows how to be silent. Nam nulli tacuisse nocet nocet esse locutum . "Speech is silver," says the proverb, "silence is golden." Septuagint, "A man of sense keeps quiet."