held their peace.

Psalm 38:13, 14
But I, like a deaf man, do not hear, and like a mute man, I do not open my mouth. . . .

Psalm 39:1
I said, "I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present."

Proverbs 9:7
He who corrects a mocker will bring shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man will be tainted.

Proverbs 26:4
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be like him.

Amos 5:13
Therefore, the prudent keep silent in such times, for the days are evil.

Matthew 7:6
Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.