Proverbs 17:12 akjv — Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.

American King James Version

" Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly. "

— Proverbs 17:12, American King James Version

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Proverbs 17:12 in Other Translations

7 versions All translations

Proverbs 17 — Context

9

He that covers a transgression seeks love; but he that repeats a matter separates very friends.

10

A reproof enters more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

11

An evil man seeks only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

12

Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.

13

Whoever rewards evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

14

The beginning of strife is as when one lets out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

15

He that justifies the wicked, and he that condemns the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

Proverbs 17:12 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 17:12 say?
Proverbs 17:12 in the American King James Version reads: “ Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly. ”
Where is Proverbs 17:12 in the Bible?
Proverbs 17:12 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 17, verse 12.
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 17:12.
What translation should I read Proverbs 17:12 in?
Proverbs 17:12 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 17:12?
Proverbs 17:12 reads (AKJV): “ Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly. ” 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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