17 The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.
17 The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools.
17 The words of the wise heard in quiet are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools.
17 The quiet words of the wise are more effective Than the ranting of a king of fools.
17 Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard Rather than the shout of a ruler of fools.
17 Better to hear the quiet words of a wise person than the shouts of a foolish king.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:17
Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:13-18
(Read Ecclesiastes 9:13-18)
A man may, by his wisdom, bring to pass that which he could never do by his strength. If God be for us, who can be against us, or stand before us? Solomon observes the power of wisdom, though it may labour under outward disadvantages. How forcible are right words! But wise and good men must often content themselves with the satisfaction of having done good, or, at least, endeavoured to do it, when they cannot do the good they would, nor have the praise they should. How many of the good gifts, both of nature and Providence, does one sinner destroy and make waste! He who destroys his own soul destroys much good. One sinner may draw many into his destroying ways. See who are the friends and enemies of a kingdom or a family, if one saint does much good, and one sinner destroys much good.