Context

Like pretty much all of the Proverbs, this line is found in the middle of long line of great advice: Be nice to your friends, don't act the fool, know when to shut up, etc.

This quote is one of the oldest ways to say that optimism is good for your health. Or, if you prefer, it's like the Hebrew version of "Don't Worry, Be Happy."

Where you've heard it

Like many Bible phrases, this one has been passed down through a long game of telephone, with additions and subtractions along the line.

Today, while you might not hear the exact phrase from Proverbs, you'll often hear that "laughter is the best medicine." So laugh it up, Shmoopers. 

Just don't take the phrase literally.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

Nothing pretentious about a little laugh therapy—provided you're not in an inappropriate situation: a funeral, a proctored exam, a group therapy session for depressed clowns...whatever.