Proverbs 18:13

Proverbs 18:12–15

Before destruction the heart of man is proud, but before honor is humility. He who answers before he hears, that is folly and shame to him. A man’s spirit will sustain him in sickness, but a crushed spirit, who can bear? The heart of the discerning gets knowledge. The ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

Context note · editorial

The saying warns against answering before listening. Its neighboring lines praise humility and an ear that seeks knowledge, giving a clear first step when understanding is incomplete.