Bible Strands
Proverbs 14:8
The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools deceives them.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The text is a wisdom maxim from the book of Proverbs, addressed to a general reader to contrast prudent self-assessment with the self-deception of the foolish.
The words — עָרוּם ('A.rum) translates to "sensible person," and מִרְמָה (mir.Mah) means "deceit."
The thread — The pattern of rejecting foolish self-deception and pursuing clear discernment runs through Ephesians 5:17, which commands understanding the Lord’s will, and 2 Timothy 3:13, which describes fools deceiving and being deceived.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to actively evaluate their own path and reject the false confidence of fools, treating discernment as a practical necessity rather than an abstract ideal.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.
Cross-references
- Ephesians 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
- 2 Timothy 3:13 while evil men and imposters go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
- James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
- Colossians 1:9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
- Psalms 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!
- Psalms 119:5 Oh, that my ways were committed to keeping Your statutes!
- Psalms 119:34 Give me understanding that I may obey Your law, and follow it with all my heart.
- Psalms 119:73 Your hands have made me and fashioned me; give me understanding to learn Your commandments.
- Proverbs 2:9 Then you will discern righteousness and justice and equity—every good path.
- Proverbs 8:20 I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,