13 I have observed that this also is wisdom under the sun, and it is significant to me: 14 There was a small city with few men in it. A great king came against it, surrounded it, and built large siege works against it. 15 Now a poor wise man was found in the city,(A) and he delivered the city by his wisdom.(B) Yet no one remembered that poor man. 16 And I said, “Wisdom is better than strength,(C) but the wisdom of the poor man is despised, and his words are not heeded.”

17 The calm words of the wise are heeded
more than the shouts of a ruler over fools.
18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war,
but one sinner can destroy much good.(D)

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

CSB Gift & Award Bible--imitation leather, burgundy
CSB Gift & Award Bible--imitation leather, burgundy
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.29
Save: $1.70 (21%)
CSB Nurse's Bible, Navy LeatherTouch
CSB Nurse's Bible, Navy LeatherTouch
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $18.99
Save: $6.00 (24%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
CSB Explorer Bible for Kids--hardcover
CSB Explorer Bible for Kids--hardcover
Retail: $34.99
Our Price: $18.99
Save: $16.00 (46%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
CSB Life Connections Study Bible--Soft leather-look, brown
CSB Life Connections Study Bible--Soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $34.49
Save: $25.50 (43%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
CSB Rainbow Study Bible, Black and Tan LeatherTouch
CSB Rainbow Study Bible, Black and Tan LeatherTouch
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $36.99
Save: $23.00 (38%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars