Proverbs 12:23 kjv — A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

King James Version

"A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness."

— Proverbs 12:23, King James Version

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Proverbs 12:23 in Other Translations

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Proverbs 12 — Context

20

Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

21

There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22

Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.

23

A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

24

The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

25

Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

26

The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

Proverbs 12:23 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 12:23 say?
Proverbs 12:23 in the King James Version reads: “A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.”
Where is Proverbs 12:23 in the Bible?
Proverbs 12:23 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 12, verse 23.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 12:23.
What translation should I read Proverbs 12:23 in?
Proverbs 12:23 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 12:23?
Proverbs 12:23 reads (KJV): “A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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