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 Study Bible, Mahogany LeatherTouch, Thumb-Indexed
CSB Study Bible, Mahogany LeatherTouch, Thumb-Indexed
Retail: $79.99
Our Price: $58.99
Save: $21.00 (26%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
CSB Men's Daily Bible, Hardcover
CSB Men's Daily Bible, Hardcover
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $27.99
Save: $12.00 (30%)
CSB Apologetics Study Bible for Students, Hardcover
CSB Apologetics Study Bible for Students, Hardcover
Retail: $34.99
Our Price: $24.99
Save: $10.00 (29%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
CSB Outreach Bible for Kids
CSB Outreach Bible for Kids
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $3.99
Save: $1.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
CSB Invitation New Testament, Case of 108
CSB Invitation New Testament, Case of 108
Retail: $106.92
Our Price: $78.99
Save: $27.93 (26%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
CSB Military Bible, Navy Blue LeatherTouch for Sailors
CSB Military Bible, Navy Blue LeatherTouch for Sailors
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $18.99
Save: $6.00 (24%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars