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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 ...
Audio Bible



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

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 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.

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

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

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

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!

Proverbs 29:15
A rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother.

Proverbs 29:19
A servant cannot be corrected by words alone; though he understands, he will not respond.

Matthew 7:6
Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.

Matthew 18:15-17
If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. / But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ / If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

Luke 17:3
Watch yourselves. If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.

1 Corinthians 5:12-13
What business of mine is it to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? / God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”

1 Corinthians 6:5
I say this to your shame. Is there really no one among you wise enough to arbitrate between his brothers?


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
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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
This phrase emphasizes the importance of discipline and correction. In biblical times, a "mocker" was someone who ridiculed wisdom and instruction, often leading others astray. The act of striking symbolizes a form of punishment or correction intended to bring about change. In the context of ancient Israel, public discipline served as a deterrent to others. This aligns with the broader biblical principle found in Proverbs 13:24, which underscores the necessity of correction for growth and learning. The mocker represents those who are resistant to wisdom, similar to the Pharisees in the New Testament who often opposed Jesus' teachings.

and the simple will beware
The "simple" refers to those who are naive or inexperienced in wisdom. They are not inherently foolish but lack understanding. Observing the consequences faced by the mocker serves as a warning to them. This reflects the communal aspect of learning in ancient cultures, where individuals learned from the experiences of others. The simple are encouraged to develop discernment, as seen in Proverbs 1:4, which aims to give prudence to the simple. This phrase highlights the ripple effect of discipline, where the correction of one can lead to the enlightenment of many.

rebuke the discerning man
A discerning man is one who possesses insight and understanding. Rebuke here is not punitive but corrective, aimed at refining and enhancing wisdom. In the biblical context, rebuke is a form of loving correction, as seen in Proverbs 27:5, "Better is open rebuke than hidden love." The discerning man values truth and correction, akin to the Bereans in Acts 17:11, who were commended for their eagerness to receive and verify the truth. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that those who seek wisdom are open to correction and growth.

and he will gain knowledge
The result of rebuke for the discerning man is an increase in knowledge. This aligns with the biblical theme that wisdom and understanding are dynamic and ever-growing. Knowledge in this context is not merely intellectual but involves a deeper understanding of God's ways and purposes. This is reminiscent of the promise in James 1:5, where God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. The discerning man's response to rebuke reflects the humility and teachability that are hallmarks of true wisdom, as exemplified by Jesus Christ, who grew in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52).

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.(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."

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


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 19:25 Flog a scoffer and the simple will (Prov. Pro Pr)
Proverbs 19:24
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