Proverbs 29:9 - Meaning and Application

A wise person is here warned not to match wits with a fool, not to argue with him, or try to win reason from him by debate. If one wise person argues with another, there is hope of being understood. They may settle the matter fairly, and even bring the disagreement to a peaceful end. But if a wise person argues with a fool, there is no peace. He will not see the end of it, and he will gain no satisfaction from it. He must expect to be kept uneasy.

Whether the fool reacts with anger or with laughter, whether he takes what is said in a harsh or mocking way, one of those two reactions will come. So there will be no rest. No matter how truth is given, it will be badly received. The wisest person should expect to be either scolded or mocked if he contends with a fool. One who wrestles in the dirt may win or lose, but he is sure to come away dirty.

And whether the wise person himself responds with anger or with laughter, whether he uses a serious tone or a light one, whether he is strict or gentle, whether he comes with correction or with meekness, it is all the same in the end, no good is done. They said, “We played the flute for you, and you did not dance. We mourned for you, and you did not grieve” (Matthew 11:17).