It's a proverb that has been around for a long time and has been attributed to various people and cultures.
Here are some possible sources:
* Ancient Greek: Some sources suggest the quote originated in Ancient Greece, possibly from the philosopher Heraclitus (c. 535 – 475 BC), who said, "A man's character is his fate." This is interpreted to mean that what you say and do reveals your true nature.
* Ancient Roman: Another possibility is Publilius Syrus, a Roman writer of mimes, who may have written something similar in the 1st century BC.
* Medieval English: The quote might have come from a collection of proverbs called "The Proverbs of Hendyng" written in the 13th century.
It's important to note that the quote has been translated and adapted many times over the centuries, making it difficult to pinpoint its exact origin.
Despite the unknown authorship, the proverb remains popular and relevant today, emphasizing the importance of both thoughtful speech and the value of silence.