Proverbs 19:25

25 ¹Strike ²a scoffer, and the simple will ³learn prudence; ⁴reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

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 leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.

24 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and will not even bring it back to his mouth.

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

26 He who does violence to his father and chases away his mother is a son who brings shame and reproach.

27 Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

Cross References

• 1. 19:25 ch. 21:11
• 2. 19:25 See Ps. 1:1
• 3. 19:25 See Deut. 13:6-11
• 4. 19:25 [ch. 9:8]