Proverbs 17:16 web — Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, since he has no understanding?

World English Bible

"Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, since he has no understanding?"

— Proverbs 17:16, World English Bible

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Proverbs 17:16 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 17 — Context

13

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

14

The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.

15

He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the righteous, both of them alike are an abomination to Yahweh.

16

Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, since he has no understanding?

17

A friend loves at all times; and a brother is born for adversity.

18

A man void of understanding strikes hands, and becomes collateral in the presence of his neighbor.

19

He who loves disobedience loves strife. One who builds a high gate seeks destruction.

Proverbs 17:16 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 17:16 say?
Proverbs 17:16 in the World English Bible reads: “Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, since he has no understanding?”
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 (WEB): “Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, since he has no understanding?” 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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