Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 26:4

"Answer not a fool according to his folly, Lest thou also be like unto him." — Proverbs 26:4 (ASV)

Answer not a fool.— Compare to Proverbs 1:22.

According to his folly.— Do not lower yourself by disputing or arguing with him; he will not take in your meaning, and will think he has got the better of you, perhaps will insult you. It is noticeable that our Lord never answered a question which should not have been asked Him, but always deflected it (e.g., Matthew 21:23 and following; Luke 13:23–24; Luke 23:9; John 21:21–22; Acts 1:6 and following).