Wisdom turns away from evil with caution, while foolish pride treats danger carelessly.
In Proverbs 14:16, Solomon says, A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is arrogant and careless (v. 16). Wisdom does not flirt with danger. It recognizes evil and steps back from it.
The wise man is cautious because he knows the power of temptation and the slipperiness of folly. He does not trust himself recklessly. Instead, he turns away from evil, understanding that avoidance is often wiser than proximity.
The fool, however, is arrogant and careless. Pride tells him he can handle what is dangerous, and carelessness keeps him from watching where he walks. Together these traits make him vulnerable to harm. Wisdom fears the cliff; folly strolls near the edge.
Proverbs 14:16
16 A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil,
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Proverbs 14:16 meaning
In Proverbs 14:16, Solomon says, A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is arrogant and careless (v. 16). Wisdom does not flirt with danger. It recognizes evil and steps back from it.
The wise man is cautious because he knows the power of temptation and the slipperiness of folly. He does not trust himself recklessly. Instead, he turns away from evil, understanding that avoidance is often wiser than proximity.
The fool, however, is arrogant and careless. Pride tells him he can handle what is dangerous, and carelessness keeps him from watching where he walks. Together these traits make him vulnerable to harm. Wisdom fears the cliff; folly strolls near the edge.