Ecclesiastes 7:5

KJV

[It is] better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is better {H2896} to hear {H8085} the rebuke {H1606} of the wise {H2450}, than for a man {H376} to hear {H8085} the song {H7892} of fools {H3684}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is better to hear the rebukes of the wise than to listen to the songs of fools.

Berean Standard Bible

It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.

American Standard Version

It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 7:5 profoundly asserts the superior value of receiving honest, often challenging, correction from those who possess true wisdom over indulging in the pleasant but ultimately unhelpful flattery and empty entertainment offered by the foolish. The Preacher (Qoheleth) highlights that genuine personal growth and spiritual maturity are cultivated through a willingness to embrace difficult truths and constructive criticism, rather than being lulled into complacency by superficial affirmations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a significant section of Ecclesiastes, beginning around [Ecclesiastes 7](/ecclesiastes/7 "Ecclesiastes 7 - Wisdom's Contrasts"), where Qoheleth meticulously contrasts the paths of wisdom and folly, and the benefits of challenging circumstances versus superficial ease. The chapter opens with a series of paradoxical statements that challenge conventional notions of what is "good" or "better," often favoring the sober realities of life over fleeting pleasures. For instance, [Ecclesiastes 7:2-4](/ecclesiastes/7-2-4 "Ecclesiastes 7:2-4 - The House of Mourning") posits that it is better to go to the house of mourning than the house of feasting, and that sorrow is better than laughter, because it leads to a sober heart and wisdom. Ecclesiastes 7:5 directly continues this theme by applying the principle of preferring discomfort for growth, specifically in the realm of interpersonal instruction and discernment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom was not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical skill for living a righteous and flourishing life, deeply rooted in the fear of the Lord. Wisdom literature, like Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, often featured the "wise" as mentors and the "fools" as those who stubbornly rejected instruction. Public rebuke from an elder or a wise person was a recognized, albeit often painful, form of guidance aimed at correction and preservation of the community's moral fabric. Conversely, flattery and empty entertainment (the "song of fools") could lead to self-deception and moral decay, as they provided no genuine insight or challenge to one's destructive tendencies. The cultural emphasis on communal well-being meant that individual correction was seen as a necessary act of love, designed to bring one back into alignment with the path of righteousness and communal harmony.

* **Key Themes:** Ecclesiastes 7:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it underscores the **Value of Constructive Criticism**, portraying the "rebuke of the wise" not as an attack, but as a precious commodity essential for personal and spiritual development. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that "faithful are the wounds of a friend" as seen in [Proverbs 27:6](/proverbs/27-6 "Proverbs 27:6 - Faithful Wounds"). Secondly, the verse emphasizes the critical need for **Discernment Between Wisdom and Folly**. It urges the listener to distinguish between genuine, beneficial counsel, however un palatable, and the deceptive allure of empty flattery or entertainment that offers no substantive value, a recurring theme when discussing the "fool" in wisdom literature, such as [Proverbs 14:7](/proverbs/14-7 "Proverbs 14:7 - Avoiding the Fool's Path"). Finally, it reinforces the idea that **True Growth Often Requires Discomfort**, suggesting that the path to wisdom and maturity is not always pleasant but necessitates confronting uncomfortable truths and embracing opportunities for correction.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Better (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This word, derived from H2896, is used as an adjective meaning "good" in its widest sense, but also as a noun or adverb meaning "good thing," "well," or "best." In Ecclesiastes 7:5, it functions comparatively, asserting a qualitative superiority. It's not just "good" to hear the rebuke, but "better" – implying a choice between two options, one of which yields significantly greater benefit and lasting value for the individual's spiritual and practical life.
* **Rebuke (Hebrew, _gᵉʻârâh'_):** From H1606, this term signifies a "chiding," "rebuke," or "reproof." It implies a strong, authoritative correction or reprimand, often delivered with the specific intent to turn someone away from a wrong course or to prevent them from making a mistake. It is not merely criticism but a purposeful, corrective intervention aimed at restoration, guidance, and the cultivation of righteousness.
* **Fools (Hebrew, _kᵉçîyl'_):** From H3684, this word describes someone who is "fat," but figuratively, "stupid" or "silly." In biblical wisdom literature, a _kᵉçîyl_ is not simply unintelligent but is characterized by moral deficiency, obstinacy, and a deep-seated resistance to instruction and correction from God's wisdom. They are often self-deceived, lack discernment, and lead others astray through their empty words and actions, prioritizing fleeting pleasure over enduring truth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[It is] better to hear the rebuke of the wise,"**: This clause establishes the primary assertion of the verse. The "better" (H2896, _ṭôwb_) sets up a clear contrast, indicating a preference for one course of action over another due to its superior outcome and lasting benefit. "To hear" (H8085, _shâmaʻ_) implies not just the physical act of hearing, but intelligent listening, paying attention, and being receptive to the message, signifying an openness to instruction. The "rebuke" (H1606, _gᵉʻârâh_) is a strong, corrective word, often uncomfortable to the ego but delivered with the intent to guide and correct. This correction comes from "the wise" (H2450, _châkâm_), individuals possessing not only intellectual knowledge but also practical skill, moral discernment, and a reverence for God, whose counsel is therefore trustworthy and profoundly beneficial. The implication is that such a rebuke, though potentially painful, is a necessary catalyst for growth, humility, and alignment with divine truth.
* **"than for a man to hear the song of fools."**: This clause presents the inferior alternative, sharply contrasting with the first. The same verb "to hear" (H8085, _shâmaʻ_) is used, but here it is applied to the "song" (H7892, _shîyr_) of "fools" (H3684, _kᵉçîyl_). A "song" in this context represents something lighthearted, pleasant, or entertaining, often associated with revelry, superficiality, and empty flattery. The "fools" are those who are morally deficient, resistant to wisdom, and whose words lack substance or genuine insight. Their "song" may be appealing to the senses or flatter the listener, but it ultimately offers no real value, no challenge to error, and no path to improvement. It is a distraction that hinders true growth, perpetuates self-deception, and leads away from the path of righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 7:5 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Antithetical Parallelism**, which is central to the verse's structure and meaning. By directly juxtaposing the "rebuke of the wise" with the "song of fools," Qoheleth sharply highlights the qualitative difference between two types of input and their respective outcomes. This contrast is not merely descriptive but prescriptive, urging the reader to choose the path of difficult truth over pleasant deception. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**: the "rebuke" metaphorically represents painful but necessary correction and guidance, while the "song" symbolizes empty flattery, superficial entertainment, or deceptive words that offer no real substance. The "wise" and "fools" themselves are archetypal figures, representing distinct approaches to life and sources of counsel within wisdom literature. The phrase "it is better" functions as a form of **Advisory Statement**, characteristic of wisdom literature, providing direct instruction and moral guidance to the reader.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 7:5 speaks to a fundamental theological truth: God's pathway to wisdom and maturity often involves discipline and correction. Just as a loving parent corrects a child, so too does God, through various means, guide His people away from folly and towards righteousness. The "rebuke of the wise" can be seen as a human echo of divine discipline, a means by which God's truth is conveyed to His children for their ultimate good. This verse challenges the human tendency to seek comfort and affirmation over truth, reminding us that true growth is often forged in the crucible of humility and a willingness to be corrected. It underscores the biblical emphasis on wisdom as a divine gift, to be sought and cherished, even when its lessons are hard and require personal discomfort. This principle is foundational to spiritual formation.

* [Proverbs 15:31-32](/proverbs/15-31-32 "Proverbs 15:31-32 - Listening to Life-Giving Rebuke")
* [Hebrews 12:5-6](/hebrews/12-5-6 "Hebrews 12:5-6 - The Lord's Discipline")
* [James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Doers of the Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 7:5 provides timeless wisdom for navigating relationships and pursuing personal growth. In a world saturated with superficiality and the constant pursuit of affirmation, this verse calls us to cultivate a counter-cultural hunger for truth, even when it stings. It encourages us to actively seek out voices of wisdom in our lives—mentors, trusted friends, spiritual leaders—who are willing to speak hard truths in love, knowing that their correction is a gift designed for our flourishing. Conversely, it warns against the seductive allure of flattery and empty praise, which may soothe our ego but ultimately stunt our development and lead us astray. Embracing the "rebuke of the wise" requires humility, a willingness to admit our faults, and a deep desire to grow. It means valuing character over comfort and truth over temporary pleasure, recognizing that true freedom comes from walking in alignment with wisdom and divine principles.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is my typical reaction when I receive constructive criticism or rebuke? Do I tend to be defensive or receptive, and why?**
* **Who are the "wise" voices in my life whose counsel I should actively seek out, even if it's challenging, and how can I better listen to them?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be susceptible to the "song of fools," prioritizing comfort or affirmation over truth and genuine spiritual growth?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater humility and openness to correction in my personal and spiritual journey, recognizing it as a path to true wisdom?**

### FAQ
**Why is the "rebuke of the wise" considered better than the "song of fools"?**

Answer: The "rebuke of the wise" is considered better because it serves as a catalyst for genuine growth, correction, and spiritual maturity. A rebuke, though potentially uncomfortable, comes from a place of wisdom and sincere concern, aiming to guide an individual away from error and towards a more righteous and flourishing life. It provides valuable insight, prompts self-examination, and offers a concrete opportunity for self-improvement and alignment with God's will. In contrast, the "song of fools" represents empty flattery, superficial entertainment, or deceptive words that offer no real substance or challenge. While pleasant to the ear and appealing to human vanity, it lacks any corrective power and can lead to self-deception, complacency, and ultimately, spiritual stagnation. The wise person's words, even when painful, build up and lead to life, while the fool's words, though appealing, tear down by preventing necessary change, a stark contrast highlighted throughout [the Book of Proverbs](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom for Living") when discussing wisdom and folly.

**Who are the "wise" and "fools" in this context?**

Answer: In biblical wisdom literature, the "wise" (Hebrew: _châkâm_) are individuals who possess not only intellectual knowledge but also practical skill, moral discernment, and a deep reverence for God and His ways. They understand the principles of righteous living and are capable of offering sound, truthful counsel, even when it's difficult to hear, because their wisdom is often rooted in experience and divine revelation. The "fools" (Hebrew: _kᵉçîyl_), on the other hand, are not merely unintelligent but are characterized by moral deficiency, obstinacy, and a fundamental resistance to instruction and correction from God's truth. They live according to their own misguided desires, reject wisdom, and often lead others astray with their empty words and actions. Their "song" is appealing but lacks substance, reflecting their own spiritual emptiness and lack of discernment. This distinction is foundational to understanding the wisdom tradition, as highlighted in passages like [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge"), which states that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 7:5 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very **Wisdom of God** incarnate, as [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God") proclaims, and in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom")). His words, though often challenging and convicting, are always life-giving and lead to true flourishing. When Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy ([Matthew 23:13-36](/matthew/23-13-36 "Matthew 23:13-36 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")), or called His disciples to costly, self-denying discipleship ([Luke 9:23](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - Take Up Your Cross")), these were the ultimate "rebukes of the wise" that, though uncomfortable, were essential for their spiritual health and transformation. His teaching often confronted popular notions and exposed the superficiality of worldly wisdom, much like the Preacher's contrast. The "song of fools" can be seen as the seductive allure of the world's empty promises and deceptive philosophies that reject Christ's truth. These worldly "songs" may promise ease and pleasure but ultimately lead to destruction, a stark contrast to Jesus's call to build one's house on the rock of His words, which alone endure ([Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24-27 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")). To truly hear the "rebuke of the wise" is to hear and obey the voice of Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus the Way, Truth, Life")), even when His words challenge our comfort zones and call us to repentance and radical obedience. His "rebuke" is always an act of profound love, leading us to eternal life, genuine wisdom, and abundant grace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 15:31

¶ The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

Proverbs 15:32

¶ He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

Psalms 141:5

Let the righteous smite me; [it shall be] a kindness: and let him reprove me; [it shall be] an excellent oil, [which] shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also [shall be] in their calamities.

Proverbs 13:18

¶ Poverty and shame [shall be to] him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

Revelation 3:19

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

Proverbs 17:10

¶ A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

Proverbs 27:6

Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful.