Proverbs 29:19
A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.
Original Language Analysis
בִּ֭דְבָרִים
by words
H1697
בִּ֭דְבָרִים
by words
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
1 of 8
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
2 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִוָּ֣סֶר
will not be corrected
H3256
יִוָּ֣סֶר
will not be corrected
Strong's:
H3256
Word #:
3 of 8
to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יָ֝בִ֗ין
for though he understand
H995
יָ֝בִ֗ין
for though he understand
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
6 of 8
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
וְאֵ֣ין
H369
Historical Context
Ancient household management involved masters overseeing servants/slaves. While some responded to instruction, others required firmer measures. The Mosaic law regulated servant treatment (Exodus 21), balancing authority with limits on abuse. Wisdom literature recognized that mere words don't always produce obedience—a reality in family, workplace, and societal governance.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you found yourself understanding truth but resisting obedience? What broke through?
- How do you discern when someone needs more than verbal correction to change course?
- What role do consequences play in genuine repentance versus superficial compliance?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
A servant will not be corrected by words—The Hebrew eved (servant, slave) here represents one resistant to verbal instruction alone. Though he understand (yavin, discern, comprehend), he will not answer (ein ma'aneh, there is no response). Understanding without compliance reflects hardened will.
This proverb addresses leadership challenges: some individuals require more than verbal rebuke—they need tangible consequences. The issue isn't intellectual deficit but volitional rebellion. The New Testament distinguishes between those who 'have ears to hear' and those who suppress truth (Romans 1:32, 2 Timothy 4:3-4). Effective discipline adapts to the heart's condition, not merely repeating words to stubborn ears.