“A time to keep silence and a time to speak” (Eccl. 3:7) (refers to) when they revile, curse him and say ignoble things (about him), there is (then) to be no reply. “And a time to speak,” also refers to when they speak in matters of Law, then is not a time to keep silent.¹ (Another interpretation) also “A time to keep silence,” is not to reprimand those whom you know will not accept reproof in the slightest matter.² For it is better that they act inadvertently rather than transgress willfully. “And a time to speak,” (refers to) when you are able to protest and your words are heard.

footnotes: ¹ Hullin 89a. ² This is the preferred reading. Words “those whom you know” are not in text