Proverbs 17:16 bbe — How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?

Bible in Basic English

"How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?"

— Proverbs 17:16, Bible in Basic English

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 17 — Context

13

If anyone gives back evil for good, evil will never go away from his house.

14

The start of fighting is like the letting out of water: so give up before it comes to blows.

15

He who gives a decision for the evil-doer and he who gives a decision against the upright, are equally disgusting to the Lord.

16

How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?

17

A friend is loving at all times, and becomes a brother in times of trouble.

18

A man without sense gives his hand in an agreement, and makes himself responsible before his neighbour.

19

The lover of fighting is a lover of sin: he who makes high his doorway is looking for destruction.

Proverbs 17:16 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 17:16 say?
Proverbs 17:16 in the Bible in Basic English reads: “How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?”
Where is Proverbs 17:16 in the Bible?
Proverbs 17:16 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 17, 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 17:16.
What translation should I read Proverbs 17:16 in?
Proverbs 17:16 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 17:16?
Proverbs 17:16 reads (BBE): “How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?” 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.
GodsGoodBook logo

GodsGoodBook

Making God's Word accessible to everyone

Experience the Bible like never before with multiple translations, powerful search tools, and features to make God's Word personal to you. Completely free, forever.

Features

15+ Bible Translations
Powerful Search Tools
Highlight & Annotate
Share Verses
100% Free Forever
© 2025 GodsGoodBookVersion 1.8.2