How does Proverbs 21:24 define a "mocker" in biblical terms? Syntactic Structure Of The Verse The subject “Mocker” is followed by the verbless clause “is the name of,” equating identity with character. Parallel nouns “proud” (זֵד, zēd—insolent, presumptuous; cf. Psalm 19:13) and “arrogant” (יַהִיר, yāhîr—haughty, swelling) form a hendiadys, then an infinitive “acting in excessive pride” rounds out the triad. Hebrew poetry piles synonyms to picture sustained, habitual contempt. Composite Portrait Of The Biblical Mocker 1. Intellectual Disdain—rejects correction (Proverbs 9:7-8; 13:1). 2. Moral Insolence—magnifies self, minimizes God (Isaiah 28:22). 3. Social Combustion—spreads strife, sets cities aflame (Proverbs 22:10; 29:8). 4. Spiritual Blindness—seeks wisdom but finds none (Proverbs 14:6). 5. Divine Antagonist—Yahweh “mocks the mockers” in holy retribution (Proverbs 3:34; echoed James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Occurrences Across Proverbs 1:22; 3:34; 9:7-8; 13:1; 14:6; 15:12; 19:25; 21:11; 22:10; 24:9; 29:8. The book progressively warns, disciplines, then expels the mocker, whereas the wise are welcomed and blessed. Canonical Continuity Old Testament: Mockery of prophets (2 Chronicles 36:16) leads to exile. New Testament: Soldiers, crowds, and thieves mock Jesus (Matthew 27:29-44; Luke 23:36-39), yet the Resurrection reverses the taunt (Acts 2:32-36). Galatians 6:7 issues the final caution: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked.” Theological Implications Mockery is not merely bad manners; it is treason against the Creator’s moral order. By denying dependent creatureliness, the mocker contradicts the design evident “from what has been made” (Romans 1:20) and thus stands self-condemned. Practical Application 1. Do not cast pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6); discern receptivity before engagement. 2. Yet pray—Saul the persecutor became Paul the apostle when confronted by the risen Christ (Acts 9:1-6). 3. Remove persistent mockery from leadership and fellowship contexts to restore peace (Proverbs 22:10; 1 Corinthians 5:11-13). Summary Definition According to Proverbs 21:24, a “mocker” is a person so inflated with pride that scorn becomes his very name and nature. Habitual, arrogant derision against God, wisdom, and correction marks him. Scripture warns that unless humbled by grace, the mocker will ultimately bear the same ridicule he has sown—before both men and the righteous Judge. |
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