proverb · Words worth keeping
The wise must be respected even when the advice they give is not suitable.
The wise must be respected even when the advice they give is not suitable.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Respect for the wise even when advice is unsuitable separates regard for a person from accepting a particular recommendation. The saying allows counsel and respect to differ.
What the words are saying
A useful application evaluates the actual proposal while keeping discussion civil. Respect does not require obedience, and a reputation for wisdom does not establish that every answer fits. Harmful conduct or unsupported authority can still be challenged.
Everyday example
Someone declines a respected mentor’s unsuitable suggestion and explains the relevant circumstances.
When to use it
Use it to distinguish respectful disagreement from automatic acceptance.
What it does not mean
No obligation to obey or immunity from criticism is established.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
India
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference (2014 AD)
Supplied reference B; unit 367; PDF page 36; collection label: India
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- India