Proverbs 23:9

23:9 Do not speak in the ears of a fool, ¹ 

for he will despise the wisdom of your words. ² 

[23:9]  ¹ sn The mention of “the ears” emphasizes the concerted effort to get the person’s undivided attention. However, a fool rejects instruction and discipline.

[23:9]  ² sn Saying number nine indicates that wisdom is wasted on a fool. The literature of Egypt has no specific parallel to this one.