proverb · Words worth keeping
Knowledge has no enemies but the ignorant.
Knowledge has no enemies but the ignorant.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Knowledge having only ignorant enemies describes opposition as a failure of understanding. The saying offers a strong defence of learning.
Example
Someone addresses a question with evidence instead of labelling the questioner ignorant.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A critical reading does not dismiss every objection as ignorance. Claims presented as knowledge can be wrong, incomplete or misused, and informed criticism can improve them. A useful application encourages learning while checking evidence and allowing reasoned disagreement.
When to use it
Use it critically to defend learning without silencing scrutiny.
Keep in mind
No ignorance inferred from every disagreement or immunity for knowledge claims is established.
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
- Latin