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4 These Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are.5 Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation. Proverbs 26:4-5 NLTThese two verses seem to contradict, but they actually are purposely demonstrating the contradiction between reason and folly. A fool remains a fool whether he is answered or not. The wise person has a choice to make depending on what he or she sees is the greatest need of the fool. Some fools don’t deserve an answer because they are clearly not in a mood to listen, and those who try to answer them will simply stoop to their level. There are other situations where common sense says to answer the fool in order to expose his or her pride and folly. --- Life Application Study Bible notes