Proverbs 19:25
New International Version
Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.

New Living Translation
If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded will learn a lesson; if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser.

English Standard Version
Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

Berean Standard Bible
Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

Berean Literal Bible
Strike a mocker and a simple one acts prudently; and rebuke a discerning one—he will discern knowledge.

King James Bible
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

New King James Version
Strike a scoffer, and the simple will become wary; Rebuke one who has understanding, and he will discern knowledge.

New American Standard Bible
Strike a scoffer and the naive may become clever, But rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

NASB 1995
Strike a scoffer and the naive may become shrewd, But reprove one who has understanding and he will gain knowledge.

NASB 1977
Strike a scoffer and the naive may become shrewd, But reprove one who has understanding and he will gain knowledge.

Legacy Standard Bible
Strike a scoffer and the simple may become prudent, But reprove one who has understanding and he will understand knowledge.

Amplified Bible
Strike a scoffer [for refusing to learn], and the naive may [be warned and] become prudent; Reprimand one who has understanding and a teachable spirit, and he will gain knowledge and insight.

Berean Annotated Bible
Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

Christian Standard Bible
Strike a mocker, and the inexperienced learn a lesson; rebuke the discerning, and he gains knowledge.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Strike a mocker, and the inexperienced learn a lesson; rebuke the discerning, and he gains knowledge.

American Standard Version
Smite a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; And reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

Contemporary English Version
Stupid fools learn good sense by seeing others punished; a sensible person learns by being corrected.

English Revised Version
smite a scorner, and the simple will learn prudence: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Strike a mocker, and a gullible person may learn a lesson. Warn an understanding person, and he will gain more knowledge.

Good News Translation
Arrogance should be punished, so that people who don't know any better can learn a lesson. If you are wise, you will learn when you are corrected.

International Standard Version
If you scourge a scoffer, the simple person may learn to be discreet; rebuke a discerning man and he will gain understanding.

NET Bible
Flog a scorner, and as a result the simpleton will learn prudence; correct a discerning person, and as a result he will understand knowledge.

New Heart English Bible
Flog a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

Webster's Bible Translation
Smite a scorner and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

World English Bible
Flog a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Strike a scorner, and the simple acts prudently, "" And give reproof to the intelligent, "" He understands knowledge.

Berean Literal Bible
Strike a mocker and a simple one acts prudently; and rebuke a discerning one—he will discern knowledge.

Young's Literal Translation
A scorner smite, and the simple acts prudently, And give reproof to the intelligent, He understandeth knowledge.

Smith's Literal Translation
Thou shalt strike him mocking, and the simple will be crafty: and reprove to him understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The wicked man being; scourged, the fool shall be wiser: but if thou rebuke a wise man he will understand discipline.

Catholic Public Domain Version
When the pestilent are scourged, the foolish will become wiser. But if you chastise the wise, he will understand discipline.

New American Bible
Beat a scoffer and the naive learn a lesson; rebuke the intelligent and they gain knowledge.

New Revised Standard Version
Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; reprove the intelligent, and they will gain knowledge.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
When an evil man is scourged, a wise man takes heed; and when a wise man is reproved, he will gain understanding.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Whenever a fool is whipped, the wise pays attention, and if you rebuke the wise, he perceives knowledge.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
When thou smitest a scorner, the simple will become prudent; And when one that hath understanding is reproved, he will understand knowledge.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
When a pestilent character is scourged, a simple man is made wiser: and if thou reprove a wise man, he will understand discretion.

Additional Translations ...



Context
The Man of Integrity
24The slacker buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth. 25Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge. 26He who assaults his father or evicts his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace.…

Cross References
Strike a mocker,

Proverbs 22:10
Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease.

Proverbs 15:12
A mocker does not love to be reproved, nor will he consult the wise.

Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
and the simple will beware;

Proverbs 21:11
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

Proverbs 22:3
The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences.

Proverbs 27:12
The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.
rebuke the discerning man,

Proverbs 17:10
A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment deeper than a hundred lashes cut into a fool.

Proverbs 9:8-9
Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. / Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.

Proverbs 25:12
Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.
and he will gain knowledge.

Proverbs 14:6
A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

Proverbs 18:15
The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

Proverbs 1:5
let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel
Proverbs 9:7-9
He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself. / Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. / Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.

Proverbs 15:5
A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.

Proverbs 23:9
Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.

Proverbs 26:3
A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!


Treasury of Scripture

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that has understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

smite

Proverbs 21:11
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

Deuteronomy 13:11
And all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you.

Deuteronomy 21:21
And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.

beware

Proverbs 9:9,10
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning…

Proverbs 15:5
A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

Proverbs 17:10
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

Jump to Previous
Acts Beware Discerning Flog Gain Intelligent Learn Naive Overtake Pride Prudence Prudent Prudently Rebuke Reproof Reprove Reproved Scoffer Scorner Sense Sharp Shrewd Simple Smite Smitest Strike Understand Understandeth Understanding Wise Words
Jump to Next
Acts Beware Discerning Flog Gain Intelligent Learn Naive Overtake Pride Prudence Prudent Prudently Rebuke Reproof Reprove Reproved Scoffer Scorner Sense Sharp Shrewd Simple Smite Smitest Strike Understand Understandeth Understanding Wise Words
Proverbs 19
1. Life and Conduct












Strike a mocker,

Public punishment of the scoffer warned against open contempt for wisdom, authority, and the fear of the Lord. His defiance endangered others by making rebellion appear acceptable.

Pro 22:10 Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart…
Pro 15:12 A mocker does not love to be reproved, nor will he consult…
Pro 13:1 A wise son heeds his father’s discipline……

and the simple will beware;

The inexperienced observer could learn without suffering the same consequences. Seeing judgment fall on hardened rebellion taught caution and encouraged a sober regard for instruction.

Pro 21:11 When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom;…
Pro 22:3 The prudent see danger and take cover, but…
Pro 27:12 The prudent see danger and take cover…

rebuke the discerning man,

A man of understanding does not need severe punishment. A direct correction is enough because he receives reproof as guidance rather than an insult.

Pro 17:10 A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment…
Pro 9:8-9 Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;…
Pro 25:12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold…

and he will gain knowledge.

Humble acceptance of correction deepens understanding. Wisdom grows when a person recognizes error, submits to truth, and adjusts his conduct accordingly.

Pro 14:6 A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes…
Pro 18:15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge…
Pro 1:5 let the wise listen and gain instruction,…

Persons / Places / Events
1. Mocker
In the context of Proverbs, a mocker is someone who ridicules wisdom and instruction. They are often resistant to correction and are characterized by arrogance and pride.

2. Simple
The simple are those who are naive or inexperienced. They are not necessarily foolish but lack understanding and discernment. They are open to learning and can be influenced by observing the consequences of others' actions.

3. Discerning Man
This person is wise and perceptive, able to understand and apply knowledge. They are open to correction and use it as an opportunity for growth.

4. Rebuke
A form of correction or criticism intended to bring about change. In the biblical context, it is often used to guide someone back to the right path.

5. Knowledge
In Proverbs, knowledge is more than just information; it is understanding and wisdom that leads to righteous living.
Teaching Points
The Role of Correction in Growth
Correction is essential for personal and spiritual growth. It is a tool used by God to refine and mature His people.

The Impact of Example
Observing the consequences of others' actions can be a powerful teacher. The simple learn by watching the outcomes of the mocker's behavior.

Openness to Rebuke
A discerning person welcomes rebuke as an opportunity to gain knowledge and grow in wisdom. This openness is a mark of maturity and humility.

The Consequences of Mockery
Mockery leads to downfall and serves as a warning to others. It is a reminder of the importance of humility and the dangers of pride.

Wisdom in Community
Wisdom is often gained in community through observing, learning, and being open to correction from others.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 19:25?

2. How does Proverbs 19:25 encourage us to correct those who are wise?

3. What does "strike a mocker" teach about consequences for foolish behavior?

4. How can Proverbs 19:25 guide us in mentoring others biblically?

5. What other Proverbs emphasize the importance of wisdom and correction?

6. How can we apply the lessons from Proverbs 19:25 in our daily lives?

7. How does Proverbs 19:25 illustrate the importance of discipline in spiritual growth?

8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 19:25?

9. How does Proverbs 19:25 relate to modern Christian teachings on correction and wisdom?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 19?


(25) Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware.--For "scorner" and "simple" see note on Proverbs 1:22. Reproof is of no avail to turn the "scorner" from his evil way (Proverbs 9:7; Proverbs 13:1; Proverbs 15:12), punishment will also do him no good; but it may make the "simple," whose character is not yet formed for good or evil, reflect and amend. So God at first punishes sinners for their good (Amos 4:6, ff.), afterwards, when they are obdurate, as a warning to others (Amos 4:12; Deuteronomy 29:21, ff.) . . .

Verse 25. - Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware; will learn prudence, Revised Verson (comp. Proverbs 21:11; and see note on Proverbs 1:22). The scorner is hardened to all reproof, and is beyond all hope of being reformed by punishment; in his case it is retribution for outraged virtue that is sought in the penalty which he is made to pay. Τιμωρία, not κόλασις - retributive, not corrective punishment. Seeing this, the simple, who is not yet confirmed in evil, and is still open to better influences, may be led to take warning and amend his life. So St. Paul enjoins Timothy, "Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear" (1 Timothy 5:20). There is the trite adage -

"Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum."

"Happy they
Who from their neighbours' perils caution learn."
Septuagint, "When a pestilent fellow is chastised, a fool will be cleverer (πανουργότερος) So Vulgate, Pestilente flagellato stultus sapientior erit. Reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand, knowledge. The scorner does not profit by severe punishment, but the intelligent man is improved by censure, and admonition (comp. Proverbs 13:1; Proverbs 15:12). Says the adage, "Sapientem nutu, stultum fuste (corripe)," "A nod for the wise, a stick for the fool."

Proverbs 19:25 contrasts two hearts. The hardened mocker needs strong, public consequences; that action protects the naïve and steers them toward caution. In contrast, a discerning person benefits from straightforward verbal rebuke, transforming correction into fresh knowledge. God uses both firm discipline and gentle reproof to uphold truth, safeguard the inexperienced, and nurture wisdom in those who already treasure it.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Strike
תַּ֭כֶּה (tak·keh)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 5221: To strike

a mocker,
לֵ֣ץ (lêṣ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3887: Ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker

and the simple
וּפֶ֣תִי (ū·p̄e·ṯî)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6612: Simple, perhaps open-minded

will beware;
יַעְרִ֑ם (ya‘·rim)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6191: To be, bare, to be cunning

rebuke
וְהוֹכִ֥יחַ (wə·hō·w·ḵî·aḥ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct
Strong's 3198: To be right, reciprocal, to argue, to decide, justify, convict

the discerning [man],
לְ֝נָב֗וֹן (lə·nā·ḇō·wn)
Preposition-l | Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 995: To separate mentally, understand

and he will gain
יָבִ֥ין (yā·ḇîn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 995: To separate mentally, understand

knowledge.
דָּֽעַת׃ (dā·‘aṯ)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1847: Knowledge


Additonal Resources
Proverbs 19:25 Blue Letter Bible
Proverbs 19:25 Bible Gateway
Proverbs 19:25 Bible.com

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Proverbs 19:25 Study Bible
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Proverbs 19:25 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 19:25 Flog a scoffer and the simple will (Prov. Pro Pr)

Proverbs 19:24
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