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Proverbs 15:1-2
New Catholic Bible
Proverbs 15:1-2
New Catholic Bible
Chapter 15
The Lord Loves Anyone Whose Goal Is Righteousness[a]
1 A gentle reply turns away wrath,
but a harsh word arouses anger.
2 The tongue of the wise distills knowledge,
but the mouth of a fool utters nothing except folly.[b]
Footnotes
- Proverbs 15:1 An honest, reflexive, and sober life—such seems to be the ideal of the sages whose maxims are collected in this part of the Book of Proverbs. It is a conviction that must be reflected everywhere in thought and word, in sentiments and relationships—a wisdom that is very human and well grounded, like all these recommendations. Yet, is it so banal as to be true and righteous in one’s heart and in one’s behavior? It is like a reflection of the very sentiments of God. Hence, we will not be surprised to find here maxims in which human behavior becomes religion, devotion, and fear of God. In those distant times, people did not yet imagine a life with God beyond their years on earth. God’s blessing consisted above all in material, familial, and social success. Nonetheless, they did already realize that the contemplation of God, even during the short earthly sojourn, is worth more than success and fortune.
- Proverbs 15:2 The mouth of a fool utters nothing except folly: see vv. 7, 28; 12:23; 13:16.
