Proverbs 15:21 kjv — Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

King James Version

"Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly."

— Proverbs 15:21, King James Version

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5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 15:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 15 — Context

18

A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19

The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

20

A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21

Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22

Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23

A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24

The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

Proverbs 15:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 15:21 say?
Proverbs 15:21 in the King James Version reads: “Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.”
Where is Proverbs 15:21 in the Bible?
Proverbs 15:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 15, verse 21.
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 15:21.
What translation should I read Proverbs 15:21 in?
Proverbs 15:21 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 15:21?
Proverbs 15:21 reads (KJV): “Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.” 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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