Pro 29:9 | MHM | STEP | The Futility of Arguing with Fools This section explains why it is not wise to argue with a foolish person. The commentary teaches that when a wise person argues with another wise person, there can be understanding and maybe even peace. But when a wise person tries to argue with a fool, it only brings frustration and never ends well. v. 9 : The verse warns that a wise man should not try to argue with a fool . If two wise people disagree, they can talk and maybe solve their problem. But if a wise person argues with a fool, there will be no peace. The wise person will find no rest or satisfaction. It does not matter if the fool gets angry or laughs at the wise person’s words. The fool may shout and argue, or he may just make fun of the advice. In the end, the wise person will only feel upset. Sometimes even how the wise person speaks does not help. Whether he is serious or trying to joke, or even gentle and kind, it does not change anything. The fool will not listen and nothing good happens. This is like what Paul says, Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness? (1 Corinthians 4:21 ). Jesus also said, We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we mourned to you, and you did not lament (Matthew 11:17 ). This means that however you try to speak to a fool, it will not work, and the wise should not waste their words.

‏ Proverbs 29:9

The Futility of Arguing with Fools

This section explains why it is not wise to argue with a foolish person. The commentary teaches that when a wise person argues with another wise person, there can be understanding and maybe even peace. But when a wise person tries to argue with a fool, it only brings frustration and never ends well.

v. 9: The verse warns that a wise man should not try to argue with a fool . If two wise people disagree, they can talk and maybe solve their problem. But if a wise person argues with a fool, there will be no peace. The wise person will find no rest or satisfaction. It does not matter if the fool gets angry or laughs at the wise person’s words. The fool may shout and argue, or he may just make fun of the advice. In the end, the wise person will only feel upset. Sometimes even how the wise person speaks does not help. Whether he is serious or trying to joke, or even gentle and kind, it does not change anything. The fool will not listen and nothing good happens. This is like what Paul says, Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness? (1 Corinthians 4:21 ^a). Jesus also said, We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we mourned to you, and you did not lament (Matthew 11:17 ^b). This means that however you try to speak to a fool, it will not work, and the wise should not waste their words.