Proverbs 26:4 cpdv — Do not respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest you become like him.

Catholic Public Domain Version

"Do not respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest you become like him."

— Proverbs 26:4, Catholic Public Domain Version

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Proverbs 26:4 in Other Translations

7 versions All translations

Proverbs 26 — Context

1

In the manner of snow in the summer, and rain at the harvest, so also is glory unfit for the foolish.

2

Like a bird flying away to another place, and like a sparrow that hurries away freely, so also a curse uttered against someone without cause will pass away.

3

A whip is for a horse, and a muzzle is for donkey, and a rod is for the back of the imprudent.

4

Do not respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest you become like him.

5

Respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest he imagine himself to be wise.

6

Whoever sends words by a foolish messenger has lame feet and drinks iniquity.

7

In the manner of a lame man who has beautiful legs to no purpose, so also is a parable unfit for the mouth of the foolish.

Proverbs 26:4 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 26:4 say?
Proverbs 26:4 in the Catholic Public Domain Version reads: “Do not respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest you become like him.”
Where is Proverbs 26:4 in the Bible?
Proverbs 26:4 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 26, verse 4.
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 26:4.
What translation should I read Proverbs 26:4 in?
Proverbs 26:4 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 26:4?
Proverbs 26:4 reads (CPDV): “Do not respond to the foolish according to his folly, lest you become like him.” 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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