Proverbs 17:12 net — It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs, than to encounter a fool in his folly.

NET Bible

"It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs, than to encounter a fool in his folly."

— Proverbs 17:12, NET Bible

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Proverbs 17:12 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 17 — Context

9

The one who forgives an offense seeks love, but whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.

10

A rebuke makes a greater impression on a discerning person than a hundred blows on a fool.

11

An evil person seeks only rebellion, and so a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

12

It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs, than to encounter a fool in his folly.

13

As for the one who repays evil for good, evil will not leave his house.

14

Starting a quarrel is like letting out water; abandon strife before it breaks out!

15

The one who acquits the guilty and the one who condemns the innocent– both of them are an abomination to the LORD.

Proverbs 17:12 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 17:12 say?
Proverbs 17:12 in the NET Bible reads: “It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs, than to encounter 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 (NET): “It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs, than to encounter 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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