12:15

Notice the parallel parts that contrast in meaning:

15a The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,

15b but a wise man listens to counsel.

The parts in bold print do not contrast directly. The implied contrast is that a fool will not listen to advice, and a wise person does not base his decisions on his own opinion.

12:15a

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: This clause means that a fool considers his own behavior or actions to be correct.

fool: In Hebrew, this word for fool refers to someone who does stupid and wrong things because of his evil character. It is also implied that he is arrogant and stubborn. For example:

A stubborn fool considers his own way the right one (God’s Word)

is right in his own eyes: In Hebrew, this phrase is literally “is right in his eyes.” The expression “his eyes” refers figuratively to his own opinion, viewpoint or thinking. Another way to translate this phrase is:

always think they are right (Good News Translation)

right: In Hebrew, this word literally means “straight” (for example, a straight line). Here it refers figuratively to conduct that is in line with God’s moral standard. In other words, it is morally “right/correct.”

12:15b

but a wise man listens to counsel: The phrase listens to counsel also implies that a wise person accepts the advice he receives.

counsel: This word refers here to someone’s recommendation or plan about what a wise man should do or how he should act. Another way to translate it is:

advice (New International Version)

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