If a word is worth one shekel, silence is worth two.
If a word is worth one shekel, silence is worth two.
Meaning in plain English
A word worth one shekel and silence worth two give restraint a higher value through a price comparison. The saying asks whether speaking adds enough to justify it.
Example
Someone omits an unnecessary insult but still states the concern that needs a response.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The amounts are rhetorical rather than market prices or a universal ratio. A responsible reading distinguishes needless speech from questions, fair criticism and reporting harm. Silence can be useful in one exchange and harmful in another; relevant circumstances should decide its value.
When to use it
Use it to weigh speech and restraint with necessary communication retained.
Keep in mind
No universal superiority of silence or duty to suppress justified speech is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 537; PDF page 50; collection label: Hebrew
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