Proverbs 17:10
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.
Original Language Analysis
תֵּ֣חַת
entereth
H5181
תֵּ֣חַת
entereth
Strong's:
H5181
Word #:
1 of 6
to sink, i.e., descend; causatively, to press or lead down
בְמֵבִ֑ין
more into a wise man
H995
בְמֵבִ֑ין
more into a wise man
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
3 of 6
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
מֵהַכּ֖וֹת
stripes
H5221
מֵהַכּ֖וֹת
stripes
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
4 of 6
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
Historical Context
Ancient discipline included corporal punishment. Mosaic Law prescribed flogging (Deuteronomy 25:2-3, limited to 40 lashes). Proverbs frequently mentions physical discipline (13:24, 22:15, 23:13-14, 29:15). Yet this proverb says wise people don't require beating—verbal reproof suffices. Fools remain unchanged despite severe punishment. The principle: internal receptivity matters more than external severity. Jesus taught disciples gently; they responded with transformation.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you learn from one gentle reproof, or do you require many painful experiences before changing?
- What cultivates teachability that makes gentle correction effective?
- How does the Holy Spirit's gentle conviction differ from the severe discipline required by hard-hearted resistance?
Analysis & Commentary
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool. Techat ge'arah maevin (תֵּחַת גְּעָרָה מֵבִין, a rebuke descends into the discerning). One reproof deeply impacts the wise. Mehakkot kesil me'ah (מֵהַכּוֹת כְּסִיל מֵאָה, more than striking a fool a hundred times). A hundred beatings don't teach fools. The contrast is dramatic—wisdom makes one blow sufficient; folly makes a hundred insufficient. The proverb celebrates teachability versus hardened resistance. Believers should be teachable, learning from gentle correction rather than requiring harsh discipline (Hebrews 12:5-11).