3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.
3 A fool's mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them.
3 By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back,
3 Frivolous talk provokes a derisive smile; wise speech evokes nothing but respect.
3 In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.
3 A fool's proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 14:3
Commentary on Proverbs 14:3
(Read Proverbs 14:3)
Pride grows from that root of bitterness which is in the heart. The root must be plucked up, or we cannot conquer this branch. The prudent words of wise men get them out of difficulties.