of the proud and arrogant man—
Pride and arrogance are consistently condemned throughout Scripture. They are seen as the root of many sins, leading individuals to elevate themselves above others and, ultimately, above God. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, humility was a valued trait, and pride was often linked to rebellion against God (Isaiah 2:11-12). The proud and arrogant man is one who trusts in his own strength and wisdom rather than in God, reminiscent of figures like Pharaoh in Exodus, who hardened his heart against God's commands.

of him who acts with excessive pride.
Excessive pride, or hubris, is a dangerous trait that leads to one's downfall. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who fell due to their pride, such as King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4, who was humbled by God until he acknowledged God's sovereignty. This phrase serves as a warning against self-exaltation and a reminder of the biblical principle that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). It also points to the ultimate example of humility found in Jesus Christ, who, though being in very nature God, humbled Himself and became obedient to death (Philippians 2:5-8).

• Scripture refuses to treat scoffing as a harmless personality trait; instead, it assigns a title: “Mocker.”

• Proverbs 9:7-8 warns that “he who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself,” underscoring how entrenched this attitude is.

• By naming the scoffer, the verse exposes the heart issue behind the behavior—mockery reveals rebellion against God’s wisdom (Proverbs 1:22).

• Pride is the inner engine that fuels mockery. Proverbs 16:18 cautions, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

• Pride elevates self above both God and neighbor, making humble teachability impossible (James 4:6; Psalm 138:6).

• When the verse links “mocker” with “proud,” it shows that scoffing is not merely about words; it is the overflow of a heart enthroned with self.

• Arrogance adds open defiance to inward pride. Psalm 10:4: “In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his schemes there is no God.”

• The arrogant person trusts his own opinions and belittles correction (Proverbs 15:12).

• Such a man builds his identity around being “above” others, which explains why mockery is his native tongue (Romans 1:30 speaks of those who are “arrogant” and “boastful”).

• The verse ends by stressing action: pride is not just a mood but a lifestyle on display. Proverbs 8:13 equates “arrogance, evil behavior, and perverse speech” with hatred of the Lord.

• Isaiah 2:11 pictures the ultimate outcome: “The proud look of man will be humbled and the loftiness of men brought low, and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.”

• Daily habits reveal whether pride or humility rules the heart (1 Peter 5:5). Mockers may appear strong now, but their self-exalting course sets them against God Himself.

Proverbs 21:24 exposes a chain: a proud heart breeds arrogance, arrogance expresses itself in mockery, and persistent mockery brands a person as a “mocker.” God’s Word warns that this path is self-destructive and stands in direct opposition to His wisdom. Humility and teachability are the only antidotes, leading to grace instead of judgment.