Proverbs 15:21 net — Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense, but one who has understanding follows an upright course.

NET Bible

"Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense, but one who has understanding follows an upright course."

— Proverbs 15:21, NET Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 15:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 15 — Context

18

A quick-tempered person stirs up dissension, but one who is slow to anger calms a quarrel.

19

The way of the sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is like a highway.

20

A wise child brings joy to his father, but a foolish person despises his mother.

21

Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense, but one who has understanding follows an upright course.

22

Plans fail when there is no counsel, but with abundant advisers they are established.

23

A person has joy in giving an appropriate answer, and a word at the right time– how good it is!

24

The path of life is upward for the wise person, to keep him from going downward to Sheol.

Proverbs 15:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 15:21 say?
Proverbs 15:21 in the NET Bible reads: “Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense, but one who has understanding follows an upright course.”
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 (NET): “Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense, but one who has understanding follows an upright course.” 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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