“He who belittles and despises his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding keeps silent” AMPC 

“A person who despises a neighbor has no sense, but a person who has understanding keeps quiet.” GW
Proverbs 11:12

To despise in this context means to disrespect or hold in contempt. It is an attitude that considers someone unworthy of respect and thus views them as insignificant. 

But who is your “neighbour”?

Vine’s Expository Dictionary defines the word “neighbour” here as a companion. It is translated from the root word, rea‘ meaning  a “personal friend” with whom one shares confidences and to whom one feels very close.

Therefore, to despise your neighbour means to consider the confidences of your close friend as insignificant.

A wise person would not do that since it breaks confidence. Breaking confidence in friendship has multiple implications that could ultimately lead to the end of such closeness. This could lead to a chain of events that can cause more hurt than anticipated. 

Heart Check: Do you value your companions and keep their confidences?

Reference:

Vine, W.E.; Merrill F. Unger. Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words: With Topical Index (Word Study) (p. 358). Kindle Edition. 

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