Proverbs 11:12,13 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

He that is void of wisdom Of knowledge, prudence, and grace; despiseth his neighbour Which he shows by contemptuous or reproachful expressions; but a man of understanding holdeth his peace Forbears all such expressions, and silently and patiently bears all these reproaches. It is a great weakness to speak contemptuously of any man, or to endeavour to render him ridiculous, though he may have erred, because he possibly may return to a right way of thinking and acting for the future; and it is cruel to insult over errors committed through human infirmity; therefore a prudent person says nothing to the reproach of any one. A tale- bearer Or, He that goeth about, (see the margin,) from one place or person to another, telling tales, making it his business to scatter reports; revealeth secrets Either his neighbour's secret faults, or such things as were committed to his trust, with a charge of secrecy; but he that is of a faithful spirit That hath a sincere, constant, and faithful mind, and therefore both can and will govern his tongue; concealeth the matter Will hide those things which have been committed to his trust, or which, if known, might be injurious to others.