proverb · Words worth keeping
He is not wise that is not wise for himself.
He is not wise that is not wise for himself.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Judgement that helps others should also be considered in one’s own choices. The saying questions advice disconnected from the adviser’s conduct, without making personal advantage the only purpose of wisdom.
Example
A mentor who recommends manageable project stages reviews their own overloaded plan and reduces commitments instead of merely repeating the advice to trainees.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Wise for himself directs attention back to the person offering judgement. Someone may recognise a useful approach in another person’s situation while failing to consider the same issue at home. The proverb can challenge that disconnect, but it does not require identical choices in different circumstances. Resources, responsibilities and needs may differ. Nor does wisdom become selfish merely because the person takes their own position into account. The useful reading asks whether the adviser’s reasoning has been applied honestly where it is relevant, rather than treating an unachieved ideal as proof that all their advice is worthless or pursuing personal benefit at everyone else’s expense.
When to use it
Use it when useful judgement has been offered but not considered in the speaker’s own relevant circumstances.
Keep in mind
Different circumstances may warrant different choices; self-interest is not the only measure of good judgement.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English