Proverbs 19:25

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

Proverbs 19:25 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 19:25

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware
That is, give reproof to a man that scoffs at religion, and makes a jest of all that is good; for though it may be of no use to him who will despise it, yet it may be observed, and be useful to another that hears it; who, though void of understanding, yet not hardened in impiety as the other, but open to conviction, "will become cunning" ^F24, as it may be rendered; or learns wisdom, and becomes hereby a knowing and understanding man; he hears another reproved, and fears, and becomes a wise man; so that though reproof may be lost on one, it succeeds in another, which is an encouragement to give it; and reprove one that hath understanding, [and] he will understand
knowledge;
he will grow wiser and wiser; he will improve in the knowledge of things; see ( Proverbs 9:8 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F24 (Mrey) "astutus efficetur", Pagninus, Montanus; "astutus fiet", Junius & Tremellius, Cocceius; "astutior fiet", Michaelis; "solertiam parabit", Schultens.

Proverbs 19:25 In-Context

23 The fear of the Lord is life to a man: and he shall lodge without fear in places where knowledge is not seen.

24 He that unjustly hides his hands in his bosom, will not even them up to his mouth.

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

26 He that dishonours his father, and drives away his mother, shall be disgraced and shall be exposed to reproach.

27 A son who ceases to attend to the instruction of a father will cherish evil designs.