Proverbs 25:12
As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
Original Language Analysis
זָ֭הָב
of gold
H2091
זָ֭הָב
of gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
2 of 9
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
כָ֑תֶם
of fine gold
H3800
כָ֑תֶם
of fine gold
Strong's:
H3800
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, something carved out, i.e., ore; hence, gold (pure as originally mined)
מוֹכִ֥יחַ
reprover
H3198
מוֹכִ֥יחַ
reprover
Strong's:
H3198
Word #:
5 of 9
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Psalms 141:5Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities.Proverbs 15:5A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.Proverbs 9:8Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.Proverbs 20:12The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.
Historical Context
Ancient cultures valued ornamental jewelry - gold earrings and ornaments signified wealth and beauty. Comparing wise correction to such valuables emphasizes reproof's value when received well. James 5:19-20 celebrates those who convert erring brothers: 'He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death.' Hebrews 12:11 teaches: 'Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness.'
Questions for Reflection
- How receptive are you to wise correction - do you receive it as valuable jewelry or resent it as attack?
- Who provides wise reproof in your life, and are you cultivating 'obedient ear' to receive it?
- What skills would make your correction of others more wise and well-received?
Analysis & Commentary
A wise reprover to an obedient ear is like a gold earring or ornament of fine gold. The Hebrew 'yakach' (reprove/correct) and 'shama' (hearing/obedient) describe receptive response to correction. When correction is wise and hearer receptive, beautiful relationship results - valuable as golden jewelry. This verse celebrates both skillful correction and humble receptivity. The beauty isn't in conflict but in growth through constructive confrontation.