Meaning & Analysis
A foolish person is gullible and accepts whatever they are told without question.
Insights
Gullibility
The proverb equates folly with a lack of skepticism or critical thinking, describing the fool as someone easily deceived because they accept all claims at face value.
Danger of Naivete
It warns that such unguarded belief can lead to harm or exploitation, suggesting that discernment is a vital component of wisdom.
Biblical and Historical Resonance
Rooted in Proverbs 14:15, the idea that 'the simple believeth every word' has deep biblical and moral roots, underscoring the value of discernment as a defense against manipulation and error.
Critique of Passivity
The proverb implicitly criticizes passivity and uncritical acceptance, warning that without doubt or inquiry, one becomes easy prey for lies, propaganda, or superstition.
Psychological Vulnerability
Modern psychology affirms this wisdom: cognitive biases, suggestibility, and the desire to avoid cognitive effort make many susceptible to misinformation, a vulnerability especially acute in the credulous.
Rhetorical Devices
Hyperbole
The phrase 'believes everything' is an exaggeration that starkly emphasizes the fool’s boundless credulity.
Antithesis
The unspoken contrast between the fool and the discerning wise person lends the proverb moral and intellectual clarity.
Biblical Allusion
Echoes scriptural language, adding authority and tradition to its warning.
Transcription
Quotations
But you should haue marked that the scripture saith also, A foole beleeueth euery thing.
Florimundus justified the Prouerb, A Fool believeth every Thing.
Bible Citations
The simple believeth every word.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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