Proverbs 16:21-23

Good News Translation

²¹A wise, mature person is known for his understanding. The more pleasant his words, the more persuasive he is.

²²Wisdom is a fountain of life to the wise, but trying to educate stupid people is a waste of time.

²³Intelligent people think before they speak; what they say is then more persuasive.

Proverbs 16:21-23

New International Version

²¹The wise in heart are called discerning,
and gracious words promote instruction.^[a]^(A)

²²Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,^(B)
but folly brings punishment to fools.

²³The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,^(C)
and their lips promote instruction.^[b]^(D)

²¹The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

²²Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

²³The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

Good News Translation (GNT)

New International Version (NIV)