Proverbs 21:11
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
Original Language Analysis
בַּעְנָשׁ
is punished
H6064
בַּעְנָשׁ
is punished
Strong's:
H6064
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, to urge; by implication, to inflict a penalty, specifically, to fine
לֵ֭ץ
When the scorner
H3887
לֵ֭ץ
When the scorner
Strong's:
H3887
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
וּבְהַשְׂכִּ֥יל
is instructed
H7919
וּבְהַשְׂכִּ֥יל
is instructed
Strong's:
H7919
Word #:
5 of 8
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
לְ֝חָכָ֗ם
and when the wise
H2450
לְ֝חָכָ֗ם
and when the wise
Strong's:
H2450
Word #:
6 of 8
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
Cross References
Proverbs 19:25Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.Proverbs 18:15The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.Acts 5:5And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.Proverbs 18:1Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.Proverbs 9:9Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
Historical Context
Public executions and punishments in ancient Israel served both justice and education. The community witnessed consequences of sin, learning to fear God and avoid evil.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you learn from instruction, or do you require personal suffering to change?
- How can you cultivate wisdom that responds to teaching rather than requiring painful experience?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse repeats the principle from 19:25: different people learn through different means. When the scorner is punished, the 'simple' (naive, inexperienced) becomes wise by observing consequences. The scorner himself rarely learns, but his judgment educates others. Alternatively, when the wise person receives instruction directly, he gains knowledge without needing to witness punishment. This validates multiple pedagogical approaches: public justice teaches the uncommitted; private instruction suffices for the teachable. The truly wise learn from words; the simple from observation; the scoffer not at all. This also affirms the evangelistic value of divine judgment—God's justice demonstrates His character and warns sinners.