Proverbs 25:12

12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.

Proverbs 25:12 in Other Translations

King James Version (KJV)
12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
English Standard Version (ESV)
12 Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.
New Living Translation (NLT)
12 To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.
The Message Bible (MSG)
12 And a wise friend's timely reprimand is like a gold ring slipped on your finger.
American Standard Version (ASV)
12 [As] an ear-ring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, [So is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
GOD'S WORD Translation (GW)
12 [Like] a gold ring and a fine gold ornament, [so] is constructive criticism to the ear of one who listens.
Holman Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
12 A wise correction to a receptive ear is like a gold ring or an ornament of gold.
New International Reader's Version (NIRV)
12 A wise person's warning to a listening ear is like a gold earring or jewelry made of fine gold.

Proverbs 25:12 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 25:12

[As] an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold
As a golden earring, when first put on, gives pain and uneasiness; but, being well hung and fixed, is very ornamental, being of fine gold, and especially when any jewels are upon it; which may be meant by the ornament, as the word is rendered, ( Song of Solomon 7:1 ) ; [so is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear;
such is the reproof of a wise man, which is seasonably given, in a fit and proper manner; and which appears to proceed from love, and is designed for good, and done in great affection and faithfulness: this, though it may be a little grating to the ear at first, yet, when well considered and received, instead of leaving any infamy or reproach on the person reproved, it is an ornament to him, as well as reflects honour upon the reprover. It may be rendered, "[so is] he that reproveth a wise man, upon" or "with an obedient ear" F7; a wise man that has an obedient or hearing ear, who is so wise as to altered to reproofs given him, and which he takes kindly, and receives profit and advantage from them; see ( Proverbs 9:8 ) ( 15:31 ) .


FOOTNOTES:

F7 (Mkx xykwm) "qui arguit sapientem", V. L. Pagninus, Mercerus, Gejerus.

Proverbs 25:12 In-Context

10 or the one who hears it may shame you and the charge against you will stand.
11 Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.
12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.
13 Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.
14 Like clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given.

Cross References 1

  • 1. S ver 11; Psalms 141:5; S Proverbs 13:18; Proverbs 15:31
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