Old Testament
Proverbs 26:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The legs of the lame are not equal; so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
Compare translations
The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
What Proverbs 26:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses a metaphor to illustrate the idea that just as a lame person's legs are not equal in strength or function, a parable spoken by a fool lacks the ability to convey truth or wisdom effectively. The comparison highlights the futility of trying to communicate profound truths through someone who lacks understanding or discernment. Fools may attempt to share wisdom, but their lack of insight renders their words ineffective, much like a crippled person cannot walk properly. This verse serves as a reminder that wisdom and understanding are essential for meaningful communication, especially when discussing deeper truths or moral lessons. It emphasizes the importance of discernment in choosing who we listen to and learn from, as not all voices carry the weight of wisdom. In essence, the verse warns against the folly of valuing the words of those who do not possess the necessary insight or understanding to speak on serious matters.
How to apply Proverbs 26:7 to your life
When sharing or receiving advice, consider the source. Seek wisdom from those who demonstrate understanding and insight rather than from those who lack discernment. This approach helps ensure that the guidance you follow is sound and beneficial.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 26:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 26:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 26:7 mean?
Proverbs 26:7 compares the legs of a lame person to a parable spoken by a fool, suggesting that just as a lame person's legs are ineffective, so are the words of a fool when trying to convey wisdom. This highlights the importance of discernment in communication.
What is the meaning of 'parable' in Proverbs 26:7?
In Proverbs 26:7, 'parable' refers to a simple story or analogy used to convey a deeper truth. The verse implies that when a fool uses a parable, it fails to communicate meaningful insights due to their lack of understanding.
How does Proverbs 26:7 relate to wisdom?
Proverbs 26:7 relates to wisdom by warning against valuing the words of those who lack understanding. It stresses that true wisdom requires a foundation of insight and discernment for effective communication.
What lesson can we learn from Proverbs 26:7?
The lesson from Proverbs 26:7 is to be cautious about where we seek advice and wisdom. It encourages us to listen to those who demonstrate true understanding rather than those who may speak without insight.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.