16:21
There are no parallel pairs. The connection between the two lines is not explicit.
21a The wise in heart are called discerning,
21b and pleasant speech promotes instruction.
It may be implied that the second line causes the result in the first line. A wise person effectively uses words to instruct others. As a result, he will gain a reputation for being discerning.
16:21a
The wise in heart are called discerning: This line means that people who are wise will gain a reputation for being intelligent. Another way to express the same meaning is that their fellowmen will recognize or acknowledge them as sensible individuals. For example:
The wise are known for their understanding (New Century Version)
wise in heart: The term wise in heart means the same as “wise.”
discerning: The discerning are people who are intelligent, perceptive and sensible.
16:21b
and pleasant speech: The Berean Standard Bible translation pleasant speech accurately expresses the meaning of the literal expression “sweetness of lips.” Be careful not to translate this expression in a way that might imply insincerity or flattery.
promotes instruction: The phrase that the Berean Standard Bible translates as promotes instruction is literally “increase learning/teaching” or “increase persuasiveness.”
The whole line indicates that a wise person who speaks in a pleasing way increases his effectiveness and persuasiveness as a teacher. At the same time he increases the learning ability of his listeners. When you translate this line, you may focus on any of these aspects of meaning. For example:
Their pleasant words make them better teachers. (New Century Version)
-or-
and speaking sweetly helps others learn (God’s Word)
-or-
The more pleasant his words, the more persuasive he is. (Good News Translation)
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