The Simple

According to Scripture, simplicity is a desirable virtue, but being simple-minded is a destructive vice. The latter is what Proverbs repeatedly warns against. Who is the simple according to Proverbs? The simple is a subspecies of the general category of the fool, but is often only at the beginning stages of folly and not as far gone. The simple is caricatured as naive, shortsighted, and myopic, giving little thought to the future or the consequences of their actions. Their decision making is categorized by limited thinking and focus on short-term effects. As Proverbs 14:15 says, “The simple believes everything,” meaning they are not anchored to any set of beliefs, values, or morals and are therefore easily misled and swayed by transient internal feelings and flashy external influences. In contrast, the prudent, which means judicious and shrewd, gives careful consideration to every decision and can see things more holistically.

What is the downfall the simple? Proverbs 1:32-33 makes clear that they are destroyed by their complacency; they do not take seriously the negative consequences of their thinking and actions, nor do they actively pursue the path of wisdom and growth - they are satisfied with the status quo. However, this only guarantees their downfall; they will inevitably inherit folly. In other words, the default path is not automatic growth and life, but breakdown and destruction. Everyone starts simple, but only those who hear and respond will become wise - that is the purpose of Proverbs (cf. Proverbs 1:1-7).