Proverbs 14:16 cpdv — The wise fear, and so turn away from evil. The foolish leap ahead with confidence.

Catholic Public Domain Version

"The wise fear, and so turn away from evil. The foolish leap ahead with confidence."

— Proverbs 14:16, Catholic Public Domain Version

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Proverbs 14:16 in Other Translations

7 versions All translations

Proverbs 14 — Context

13

Laughter shall be mingled with sorrow, and mourning occupies the limits of joy.

14

The foolish will be filled up by his own ways. And the good man shall be above him.

15

The innocent trust every word. The astute one considers his own steps. Nothing good will be for the deceitful son. But the wise servant shall act prosperously and his way will be set in order.

16

The wise fear, and so turn away from evil. The foolish leap ahead with confidence.

17

The impatient will work foolishness. And a resourceful man is hated.

18

The childish will possess foolishness, and the discerning will anticipate knowledge.

19

The evil will fall down before the good. And the impious will fall down before the gates of the just.

Proverbs 14:16 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 14:16 say?
Proverbs 14:16 in the Catholic Public Domain Version reads: “The wise fear, and so turn away from evil. The foolish leap ahead with confidence.”
Where is Proverbs 14:16 in the Bible?
Proverbs 14:16 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 14, verse 16.
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 14:16.
What translation should I read Proverbs 14:16 in?
Proverbs 14:16 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 14:16?
Proverbs 14:16 reads (CPDV): “The wise fear, and so turn away from evil. The foolish leap ahead with confidence.” 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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