The answer is: Bible

Pro 17:28

Proverbs often contrasts wisdom and folly, and this verse hilariously flips the script on traditional wisdom. The idea is that sometimes silence speaks louder than words. It's almost amusing to think that someone might be considered wise simply for not shouting their ignorance from the rooftops! The text suggests a depth to wisdom that includes humility—the wise person knows when to not speak up.

Interestingly, there’s a resolute theme in several other parts of the Bible around this concept: think of James 1:19, which encourages us to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry." It echoes the essence found in Proverbs, emphasizing listening as a part of discretion and wisdom.

Culturally, in the ancient Near East, silence was often adorned with the aura of respect and contemplation especially in the context of counsel or conflict debates—think of the wise men being sought as judges or advisors who ponder over their words carefully. Also, consider that Socrates, that famed philosopher, often landed on similar ground, promoting the idea that admitting one's ignorance is the first step toward true wisdom.

So, while on the surface this line seems simple, it challenges all of us to embrace the power of silence, demonstrating that sometimes, what you don’t say can indeed leave a lasting impression of astuteness!