Bible Strands
Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The address targets the reader concerning the limits of verbal correction, positioned between the observation that a servant ignores words and the warning that a pampered servant brings grief.
The words — The verse centers on אָץ ('atz), literally "hasty," and תִּקְוָה (tikvah), literally "hope," to frame a comparison between impulsive speech and predictable foolishness.
The thread — The structural formula "more hope for a fool" reappears in Proverbs 26:12, which specifically compares a man wise in his own eyes to a fool. The command to be slow to speak in James 1:19 and the contrast between patience and quick temper in Proverbs 14:29 extend this thematic concern.
Why it lands — The text states that impulsive speech guarantees greater ruin than the obvious folly of a fool, requiring the reader to examine the speed and control of his own words.
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
Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 26:12 Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
- James 1:19 My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,
- Proverbs 14:29 A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man promotes folly.
- Ecclesiastes 5:2 Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few.
- Proverbs 29:11 A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back.
- Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent bring plenty, as surely as haste leads to poverty.