¶ A wise son [heareth] his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
A wise {H2450} son {H1121} heareth his father's {H1} instruction {H4148}: but a scorner {H3887} heareth {H8085} not rebuke {H1606}.
A son who heeds his father's discipline is wise, but a scoffer doesn't listen to rebuke.
A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
A wise sonhearethhis father’s instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke.
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Proverbs 15:5
¶ A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent. -
Proverbs 9:7
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked [man getteth] himself a blot. -
Proverbs 9:8
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. -
Proverbs 15:20
¶ A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother. -
Proverbs 4:1
¶ Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. -
Proverbs 4:14
¶ Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil [men]. -
Proverbs 10:1
¶ The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son [is] the heaviness of his mother.
Proverbs 13:1 offers a foundational principle of wisdom, contrasting two distinct responses to guidance and correction: the teachable heart versus the rebellious spirit. This verse encapsulates a core theme found throughout the book of Proverbs, highlighting the importance of humility and open-mindedness for gaining true understanding.
Context
The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature, often presented as instructions from a father to a son. In this cultural context, the father's role was paramount in imparting moral, spiritual, and practical knowledge necessary for a righteous and successful life. The "instruction" (Hebrew: musar) referred to here is not merely intellectual teaching but encompasses discipline, moral training, and correction aimed at shaping character. This verse sets the stage for many subsequent proverbs that explore the nature of wisdom and foolishness.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
Related Scriptures
The theme of listening to instruction is central to wisdom. A wise son's receptiveness aligns with the principle that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Proverbs 1:7). The resistance of the scorner is echoed in Proverbs 9:8, which advises against rebuking a scorner, as they will only hate you for it. Similarly, Proverbs 15:5 states, "A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent." The ultimate consequence for those who consistently reject instruction is severe, as seen in Proverbs 29:1, "He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy."
Practical Application
Proverbs 13:1 remains highly relevant today. It challenges us to reflect on our own teachability. Are we open to feedback, correction, and guidance from those who genuinely care for our well-being, whether parents, mentors, or spiritual leaders? Embracing a humble posture of learning allows us to grow in wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and stubbornness. For parents, this verse underscores the importance of not only providing instruction but also fostering an environment where children learn to value and accept correction, distinguishing between constructive feedback and mere criticism.