Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Proverbs 17:28
28. Is esteemed a man of understanding Of discernment, discreetness. Miller renders freely, but neatly, “Even a fool is counted wise if he hold his peace; a man of discernment if he shut his lips.” Compare Job 13:5; Proverbs 10:19. It is observable that through this book a prudent restraint in speaking is highly commended. How often, in deliberative bodies, do men forfeit all respect, and loose all influence, by too much talking. The overweening vanity of some men prompts them to speak on... read more
Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Proverbs 17:27
27. Hath knowledge Literally, knoweth knowledge. Spareth… words Is not voluble, but when he speaketh, uttereth words of weighty meaning. Excellent spirit קר רוח , ( kar ruahh,) cool of spirit; so written, but the Masorites read יקר , ( yekar,) precious or excellent of spirit. Many critics prefer the former, taking it in the sense of gentle, quiet. Some would read, A man of calm spirit is a man of discernment. Compare Proverbs 10:19; Psalms 39:3; James 1:19. read more