What Does the Bible Say About Arguing With a Fool?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary is a devoted Bible student who loves sharing her knowledge, inspiring others with faith-filled insights, and deepening spiritual understanding through writing.

Arguments happen every day.

People debate over politics, money, relationships, and even the smallest things.

But not every argument is worth engaging in.

The Bible warns against getting caught up in foolish arguments, especially with those who are unwilling to listen or learn.

Arguing with a fool can be exhausting and unproductive, leading to frustration instead of understanding.

The Bible provides wisdom on when to speak, when to remain silent, and how to handle difficult conversations with wisdom and grace.

Understanding what Scripture says about arguing with a fool can help believers avoid unnecessary conflict and focus on what truly matters.

The Bible Warns Against Engaging With a Fool

One of the most well-known verses about arguing with a fool is Proverbs 26:4-5:

“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.

Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”

At first glance, these two verses seem to contradict each other.

But they actually provide deep wisdom.

The first verse warns that if you engage with a fool on their level—using their same tactics of anger, deception, or stubbornness—you will become like them.

The second verse, however, suggests that there are times when a fool must be confronted, or else they will continue in their own arrogance.

This means that believers need discernment in knowing when to speak and when to walk away.

Not every argument is worth having, and not every fool deserves an answer.

Fools Refuse to Listen

One of the biggest reasons the Bible warns against arguing with a fool is that they do not listen.

Proverbs 18:2 says, “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”

A fool does not engage in conversation to learn or grow.

They argue simply to win, to prove a point, or to stir up trouble.

When someone refuses to listen, no amount of reasoning will change their mind.

Jesus warned about this in Matthew 7:6:

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“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.

If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”

This verse teaches that some people will reject wisdom, no matter how valuable it is.

Trying to force truth onto someone who refuses to receive it is a waste of time and energy.

Instead of arguing, it is often best to step away and allow God to work in their heart.

Fools Love to Stir Up Strife

Another reason the Bible warns against arguing with a fool is that they thrive on conflict.

Proverbs 20:3 states, “It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.”

Some people argue simply for the sake of arguing.

They enjoy stirring up drama, creating division, and making others angry.

Engaging with such people only fuels their desire for more conflict.

Proverbs 29:9 describes what happens when a wise person tries to reason with a fool:

“If a wise person goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and scoffs, and there is no peace.”

A fool does not seek resolution—they seek attention.

No matter how well a point is made, they will twist words, ignore logic, and continue arguing just to keep the fight going.

The Bible teaches that avoiding unnecessary arguments is a sign of wisdom.

Fools Reject Correction

One of the biggest differences between a wise person and a fool is how they respond to correction.

Proverbs 9:8 says, “Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you.”

A fool does not want to be corrected.

They see any attempt to teach or correct them as a personal attack.

Instead of learning, they become defensive, making it impossible to have a productive conversation.

Proverbs 23:9 also warns, “Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words.”

This means that sometimes, the best response is no response at all.

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Rather than wasting time trying to correct someone who refuses to listen, it is better to move on and focus on those who are open to wisdom.

Walking Away Is a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness

Many people feel that walking away from an argument makes them look weak.

But the Bible teaches that avoiding foolish arguments is actually a sign of wisdom and strength.

Proverbs 17:27-28 states, “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.”

Choosing to stay silent when faced with a fool is not about losing the argument—it is about refusing to waste energy on someone who is not willing to listen.

Jesus Himself demonstrated this when He remained silent before Pilate (Matthew 27:12-14).

There are times when the wisest and most powerful response is no response at all.

The Right Way to Handle a Fool

While the Bible warns against engaging in foolish arguments, it does not say that believers should ignore fools entirely.

Instead, it encourages wisdom in how to respond.

Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Responding to a fool with kindness and patience can sometimes diffuse a heated situation.

However, if a fool continues to stir up trouble, it may be best to step away.

Titus 3:9-10 gives clear instruction on how to handle people who are constantly arguing and causing division:

“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.

Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time.

After that, have nothing to do with them.”

This means that while it is good to try and correct someone, there comes a point where it is no longer worth the effort.

At that point, it is best to walk away and leave them to their own choices.

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Trusting God to Handle Fools

Instead of wasting energy on arguments, believers are called to trust God to deal with those who reject wisdom.

Romans 12:19 reminds Christians, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

God sees everything.

He knows when someone is being difficult, dishonest, or unfair.

Instead of trying to win every argument, believers can find peace in knowing that God will deal with each person in His perfect time.

2 Timothy 2:23-24 gives a final word of wisdom:

“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.

And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”

This verse encourages believers to focus on kindness, patience, and wisdom rather than getting caught up in pointless debates.

Final Thoughts

The Bible is clear that arguing with a fool is often a waste of time and energy.

Fools do not listen, they thrive on conflict, and they reject correction.

Instead of engaging in endless arguments, believers are called to walk away when necessary, respond with wisdom, and trust God to handle difficult people.

Choosing silence is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of strength and wisdom.

Not every battle is worth fighting, and sometimes the best way to win an argument is to never engage in it at all.

By following biblical wisdom, believers can avoid unnecessary conflict and focus on what truly matters—honoring God and living in peace.