Proverbs Chapter 9 · Verse 7
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
Original Language Analysis
יֹ֤סֵ֨ר׀
He that reproveth
H3256
יֹ֤סֵ֨ר׀
He that reproveth
Strong's:
H3256
Word #:
1 of 8
to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct
לֵ֗ץ
a scorner
H3887
לֵ֗ץ
a 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
וּמוֹכִ֖יחַ
and he that rebuketh
H3198
וּמוֹכִ֖יחַ
and he that rebuketh
Strong's:
H3198
Word #:
6 of 8
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
Cross References
Proverbs 15:12A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.Proverbs 23:9Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.2 Chronicles 36:16But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against his people, till there was no remedy.
Historical Context
Jesus taught: 'Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you' (Matthew 7:6). Some people's hardness makes them unable to receive truth. Proverbs 26:4 warns: 'Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.' Wisdom includes discerning when correction is productive versus counterproductive.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you discern when correction will help versus when it will provoke hostile response?
- Have you experienced receiving 'shame' or 'insult' for attempting to correct someone unwilling to receive it?
- What wisdom is needed for knowing when to speak truth and when to remain silent?
Analysis & Commentary
Whoever corrects a mocker gets shame; whoever rebukes wicked gets insult. The Hebrew 'yasar' (correct/discipline) and 'yakach' (rebuke/reprove) describe instructive confrontation. But mockers and wicked don't receive correction gratefully - they return shame and insult. This verse warns: some people aren't ready for wisdom. Attempting to instruct those committed to folly brings harm to instructor without benefit to fool.