Proverbs 14:15
The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse highlights that true prudence isn't just about being smart; it's about carefully considering the implications of words and actions, both yours and others'. The prudent person doesn't just listen, they analyze the destination of the "steps" they're considering taking, discerning truth from deception.
This proverb appears within a series of contrasting statements that highlight wisdom versus foolishness. Following verses that discuss deception and the consequences of poor choices, this verse directly contrasts the gullible nature of the "simple" person with the thoughtful discernment of the "prudent" one, setting the stage for further exploration of wise living.
Have you ever believed something too quickly, only to regret it later? Proverbs starts by painting a picture of someone who doesn't think twice before accepting what they hear.
The verse contrasts two ways of approaching information and life.
The 'Simple' Mindset
The word 'simple' here doesn't mean naive in a sweet way. It points to someone who is easily swayed, lacking discernment and critical thinking. They readily accept everything told to them, whether it's gossip, advice, or even outright lies. This isn't born of an openness to truth, but rather a heedlessness – a failure to pause and consider.
This lack of discernment can lead them down dangerous paths, making them vulnerable to deception and poor decisions.
Wisdom isn't just about knowing things; it's about how you navigate life. The 'prudent' person does more than just listen – they actively think before they act.
The 'Prudent' Approach
In contrast to the 'simple,' the 'prudent' person is characterized by thoughtfulness and carefulness.
The goal is to align our actions and beliefs with truth and wisdom, rather than being swept along by every passing idea.
Understand the original words
pethiy · Hebrew Noun
One who lacks discernment, is easily deceived, or is naive regarding moral truth. They are characterized by a lack of caution and a susceptibility to falsehood.
arum · Hebrew Adjective
One who is wise, cautious, and exercises discernment. It refers to someone who observes their path and evaluates their actions against the standard of wisdom before proceeding.
This passage highlights the importance of careful consideration, contrasting the lilies of the field, which are clothed by God's providence, with human anxiety, suggesting a parallel to the 'prudent man' who thoughtfully considers his path rather than rushing into things.
Matthew 7:24-27Jesus tells the parable of the wise and foolish builders, illustrating how those who hear and act on His words (the prudent) build on a solid foundation, while those who don't (the simple) are swept away by life's storms.
Ephesians 5:15-17This passage directly calls believers to live with careful consideration, not as foolish people but as wise, making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil, mirroring the prudence of carefully observing one's steps.
1 John 4:1This verse warns against believing every spirit and urges testing them, which is a key aspect of the 'prudent man's' approach – carefully discerning truth from falsehood before accepting it, unlike the 'simple' who believes everything.
bensonProverbs 14:15: "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going."
Proverbs 14:15 . The simple — A foolish man; believeth every word — Is easily deceived with the smooth words and fair pretences of false and deceitful men; but the prudent man — The man well instructed and truly wise; looketh well to his goings — Either, 1st, To his own goings: he ordereth his conversation and dealings in the world with due circumspection, not considering so much what other men say…
wesleyProverbs 14:15: "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going."
14:15 The simple - A foolish man. Looketh - He orders his dealings in the world with due circumspection, not considering so much what other men say as what he ought to do.
The verse highlights that true prudence isn't just about being smart; it's about carefully considering the implications of words and actions, both yours and others'. The prudent person doesn't just listen, they analyze the destination of the "steps" they're considering taking, discerning truth from deception.
This proverb appears within a series of contrasting statements that highlight wisdom versus foolishness. Following verses that discuss deception and the consequences of poor choices, this verse directly contrasts the gullible nature of the "simple" person with the thoughtful discernment of the "prudent" one, setting the stage for further exploration of wise living.
This proverb appears within a series of contrasting statements that highlight wisdom versus foolishness. Following verses that discuss deception and the consequences of poor choices, this verse directly contrasts the gullible nature of the "simple" person with the thoughtful discernment of the "prudent" one, setting the stage for further exploration of wise living.
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"The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps." — The verse highlights that true prudence isn't just about being smart; it's about carefully considering the implications of words and actions, both yours and others'. The prudent person doesn't just…
