Fools of Proverbs

Most translations have the word “fool” about eighty times in Proverbs. This is translated from several Hebrew words, each with its own nuance of meaning.

kesil – stupid
Appearing about fifty times in Proverbs, this conveys both intellectual and moral dullness. These fools are characterized by poor decisions, and their folly is obvious in the consequences of their actions.
Prov. 18:6 - A fool’s lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating.

luts / lets – scoffer
Represented by words like “scoffer” and “scorner,” this fool is arrogant and mocks those who are wise and righteous. He lacks the humility to learn.
Prov. 3:34 - Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.

ewil – perverse, stubborn fool
This kind of fool hates and rejects wisdom. He does not want to learn or change his wicked ways. ewil is pronounced “ev-eel,” which is quite fitting for this evil fool.
Prov. 1:7 - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

pethi – naive, simple
There is hope for this fool. pethi is paralleled with “youth” in Prov. 1:4. It literally means “wide open,” as in too open-minded and gullible. This folly can come from mere inexperience, but we must grow out of it. If it persists, it becomes dangerous. The book of Proverbs is addressed to the pethi to make him chakam (wise).
Prov. 1:4 - to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth

nabal – morally dull, rebellious
This fool is particularly deficient in spiritual wisdom. He does not consider or care about what is right, and lives as if there are no consequences for his sins. He may also be intellectually lacking, but even someone with worldly knowledge can be nabal. This folly is demonstrated in the man named Nabal, who repaid David’s kindness with merciless callousness in a time of need (1 Sam. 25).
Psa. 14:1 - The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good.

~ SR

Citation
Ruhmann, Scott. “Word of the Week: Fools of Proverbs.” 27th Street Church of Christ. Access date: . http://www.churchofbend.com/wow/fool-proverbs.htm