Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like unto him.
All Commentaries on Proverbs 26:4 Go To Proverbs 26
George Leo Haydock
AD 1849
Answer not a fool Viz., so as to imitate him; but only so as to reprove his folly. (Challoner)
If thou answer at all, (ver. 5.) do it to the purpose, and to prevent others from taking scandal, (Calmet) as well as to humble the wicked, for his good. (Haydock)