Proverbs 15:12
A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.
Original Language Analysis
לֹ֣א
H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
לֵ֭ץ
A scorner
H3887
לֵ֭ץ
A scorner
Strong's:
H3887
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
הוֹכֵ֣חַֽ
not one that reproveth
H3198
הוֹכֵ֣חַֽ
not one that reproveth
Strong's:
H3198
Word #:
4 of 9
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים
unto the wise
H2450
חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים
unto the wise
Strong's:
H2450
Word #:
7 of 9
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom communities included teachers and disciples. Scorners, too proud for instruction, avoided wise mentors. Biblical examples include Rehoboam rejecting elders' counsel (1 Kings 12:8), Pharaoh hardening his heart against Moses (Exodus 7-11), and the Pharisees rejecting Jesus (John 9:40-41). Pride prevents learning. Humility seeks wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22, 19:20).
Questions for Reflection
- Do you seek out wise people who will reprove you, or do you avoid those who might confront your sins?
- What pride might be preventing you from going to the wise for counsel and correction?
- Who are the wise people in your life, and are you actively pursuing their input and accountability?
Analysis & Commentary
A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise. Lo ye'ehav-lets lehokiyach lo (לֹא יֶאֱהַב־לֵץ לְהוֹכִיחַ לוֹ, a scorner does not love one who reproves him). Lets (לֵץ, scorner, mocker, scoffer) refuses correction. El-chakhamim lo yelekh (אֶל־חֲכָמִים לֹא יֵלֵךְ, to the wise he will not go). Scorners avoid wise people who might confront their folly. This self-imposed isolation from truth guarantees continued foolishness. By contrast, Proverbs 13:20 promises: "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise." Scorners' pride prevents them from seeking wisdom that would save them.