Proverbs 1:30

They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

They would {H14} none of my counsel {H6098}: they despised {H5006} all my reproof {H8433}.

they refused my counsel and despised my reproof.

They accepted none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof.

They would none of my counsel, They despised all my reproof.

Commentary

Proverbs 1:30 KJV states, "They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof." This powerful verse encapsulates the core problem addressed throughout the book of Proverbs: the stubborn refusal of individuals to accept divine guidance and correction from Wisdom, personified.

Context

This verse is found within a crucial section of Proverbs (1:20-33) where Wisdom herself cries out in the public square, offering life-giving instruction to all who will listen. She invites the "simple," the "scorners," and the "fools" (Proverbs 1:22) to turn from their destructive ways and embrace her counsel. Verse 30 highlights the tragic response of many: they actively rejected her outstretched hand and ignored her warnings. This rejection is not passive but a deliberate choice, setting the stage for the severe consequences that Wisdom foretells for those who persist in their folly (Proverbs 1:26-27).

Key Themes

  • Rejection of Divine Wisdom: The verse clearly states that people "would none of my counsel," signifying a complete unwillingness to accept God's guiding principles for life. This is a deliberate turning away from truth and understanding.
  • Contempt for Correction: To "despise all my reproof" indicates a profound scorn for any form of discipline or correction. It reflects an unteachable spirit, often rooted in pride, that views accountability with contempt rather than as an opportunity for growth.
  • Consequences of Disobedience: This verse is a direct precursor to the warnings about the inevitable outcomes of such choices. Those who refuse Wisdom's counsel now will face distress and calamity later, and then, she warns, it will be too late to find her (Proverbs 1:28), ultimately leading them to eat the fruit of their own way (Proverbs 1:31).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "counsel" is 'etsah (ืขึตืฆึธื”), which refers to advice, purpose, or a plan. It signifies the wise guidance that leads to proper living and decision-making. "Reproof" comes from tokhachat (ืชึผื•ึนื›ึทื—ึทืช), meaning rebuke, correction, or discipline. The phrase "all my reproof" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this rejection; it's not just a specific piece of advice, but a wholesale dismissal of the very principle of being taught or corrected by divine wisdom.

Practical Application

Proverbs 1:30 serves as a timeless reminder of the critical importance of humility and teachability. In a world that often values independence and self-reliance, this verse challenges us to consider our openness to divine instruction. Are we willing to listen to God's counsel, even when it challenges our assumptions or desires? Are we receptive to correction, whether it comes through His Word, the guidance of godly mentors, or the lessons learned from life's experiences? Embracing Wisdom's counsel and reproof leads to security and peace (Proverbs 1:33), while rejecting it leads to self-inflicted harm.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 81:11

    But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.

  • Proverbs 1:25

    But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:

  • Luke 14:18

    And they all with one [consent] began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

  • Luke 14:20

    And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

  • Jeremiah 8:9

    The wise [men] are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom [is] in them?

  • Psalms 119:173

    ยถ Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts.

  • Psalms 119:111

    ยถ Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they [are] the rejoicing of my heart.
โ† Back