Proverbs 13:1

KJV

¶ A wise son [heareth] his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

KJV (with Strong's)

A wise {H2450} son {H1121} heareth his father's {H1} instruction {H4148}: but a scorner {H3887} heareth {H8085} not rebuke {H1606}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A son who heeds his father's discipline is wise, but a scoffer doesn't listen to rebuke.

Berean Standard Bible

A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.

American Standard Version

A wise sonhearethhis father’s instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 13:1 articulates a foundational principle of wisdom by drawing a sharp contrast between two archetypal responses to guidance and correction: the teachable heart and the rebellious spirit. It posits that a truly wise individual demonstrates humility and receptiveness to instruction, particularly from paternal authority, recognizing its formative value. Conversely, the "scorner" embodies arrogance and a closed-mindedness that actively rejects and disdains rebuke, thereby forfeiting the opportunity for growth and inviting self-destruction. This verse encapsulates a core theme of the book of Proverbs, emphasizing that the path to wisdom is paved with a willingness to listen, learn, and obey.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 13:1 stands as the opening verse of a chapter that continues the overarching theme of contrasting wisdom with folly, a hallmark of the book of Proverbs. Following chapters that introduce wisdom personified and the call to heed instruction (e.g., [Proverbs 1](/proverbs/1 "Proverbs 1 - The Call to Wisdom")), this verse immediately establishes the practical outworking of such principles within the family unit. Chapter 13 itself is a collection of antithetical proverbs, where each verse often presents a clear dichotomy between two types of individuals or behaviors and their respective outcomes. This opening verse sets the stage by defining the wise and the foolish not by their inherent intellect, but by their disposition toward instruction and correction, a theme that reverberates throughout the subsequent verses, touching on topics like diligence, speech, and justice.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the family unit was the primary institution for moral, spiritual, and vocational education. The father, as the patriarch, held a paramount role in imparting wisdom, discipline, and the Law of God to his children. "Instruction" (Hebrew: *musar*) was not merely intellectual teaching but encompassed holistic moral training, discipline, and correction, often involving stern warnings or even physical chastisement, all aimed at shaping character and ensuring adherence to God's covenant. This paternal instruction was seen as a vital inheritance, preparing the next generation for a righteous and flourishing life within the community. The cultural expectation was one of filial piety and respect for elders, making the "scorner's" rejection of rebuke a profound act of defiance against both familial and divine authority.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 13:1 highlights several key themes central to the wisdom tradition. Firstly, it underscores the **nature of true wisdom** as characterized not by innate intelligence but by **teachability** and a humble willingness to receive guidance, particularly from those in authority, like a father. This aligns with the broader Proverbial teaching that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord (e.g., [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord")). Secondly, it vividly portrays the **destructive nature of scorn**, identifying the "scorner" as someone who actively rejects and mocks correction, demonstrating an arrogant and closed spirit that resists truth and growth. This attitude is consistently condemned throughout Proverbs, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 9:7-8](/proverbs/9-7 "Proverbs 9:7-8 - Do Not Rebuke a Scorner"). Finally, the verse implicitly emphasizes the **indispensable value of correction and discipline** for personal development and moral formation. A wise person understands that rebuke, though sometimes uncomfortable, is a necessary tool for avoiding error and achieving maturity, while the scorner's refusal to hear it leads to stagnation and ultimate ruin, a concept echoed in [Proverbs 29:1](/proverbs/29-1 "Proverbs 29:1 - He Who Hardens His Neck").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wise (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** This term (H2450) refers to one who is intelligent, skillful, and possesses practical wisdom. It denotes not merely intellectual capacity but the ability to apply knowledge effectively for living a righteous and flourishing life. In the context of Proverbs, a "wise" person is one who understands and lives by God's principles.
* **Heareth (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** More than just auditory perception, *shâmaʻ* (H8085) in biblical Hebrew implies intelligent hearing, which includes paying careful attention, understanding, and crucially, obeying. When a wise son "heareth" instruction, it signifies an active and receptive posture that leads to internalization and compliance.
* **Scorner (Hebrew, _lûwts'_):** This word (H3887) describes someone who is arrogant, mocks wisdom, and actively scoffs at correction or reproof. A *lûwts* is not merely foolish but hostile to truth and authority, viewing guidance as an insult rather than a benefit. Their character is marked by pride and disdain.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A wise son heareth his father's instruction:"** This clause presents the positive example. A "wise son" is characterized by his receptiveness. The act of "hearing" (shama) his "father's instruction" (musar) implies not just passive listening but active understanding, acceptance, and obedience. This highlights the foundational role of parental guidance in shaping a wise character and underscores the humility inherent in true wisdom. The son recognizes the value of the discipline and teaching imparted by his father, which aims to correct and guide him toward righteousness and a flourishing life.
* **"but a scorner heareth not rebuke."** This clause introduces the stark contrast. The "scorner" (lûwts) is the antithesis of the wise son. Their defining characteristic is their refusal to "hear" (shama, with the negative "not") "rebuke" (ge'arah). This refusal signifies a hardened heart, an unwillingness to be corrected, and an arrogant disdain for any form of reproof. Unlike the wise son who welcomes instruction for growth, the scorner views correction as an affront, reinforcing their stubbornness and setting them on a path of self-destruction.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 13:1 masterfully employs **Antithetical Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. This device presents two contrasting ideas or statements in parallel, with the second line expressing the opposite of the first. Here, the "wise son" who "heareth his father's instruction" is directly contrasted with the "scorner" who "heareth not rebuke." This juxtaposition serves to highlight the divergent paths and outcomes of humility and arrogance. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition** by placing these two archetypal figures—the wise son and the scorner—side-by-side, emphasizing their fundamental differences in character and disposition towards authority and truth. Though not a direct personification, the "wise son" and "scorner" serve as **Archetypes**, representing broader categories of human behavior and moral stances that are explored throughout the book of Proverbs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 13:1 is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of wisdom as originating from God and being accessible through humility and obedience. The "father's instruction" can be seen as a microcosm of divine instruction, reflecting God's desire for His children to walk in wisdom and righteousness. The contrast between the wise son and the scorner mirrors the fundamental biblical dichotomy between those who submit to God's word and those who rebel against it. The scorner's refusal to hear rebuke is not merely a social misstep but a theological rebellion against the very source of truth and life, ultimately leading to spiritual and practical ruin. Conversely, the wise son's teachability aligns with a heart that fears the Lord, recognizing that true knowledge and understanding begin with reverence for God and a willingness to conform to His ways. This verse, therefore, underscores the critical importance of a receptive heart for spiritual growth and maturity, echoing the call to listen to God's voice found throughout Scripture.

* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")
* [Proverbs 9:8](/proverbs/9-8 "Proverbs 9:8 - Do Not Rebuke a Scorner")
* [Proverbs 15:5](/proverbs/15-5 "Proverbs 15:5 - A Fool Despises His Father's Instruction")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 13:1 serves as a timeless mirror, inviting us to honestly assess our own teachability. Are we, like the wise son, eager to receive instruction and correction, understanding that it is a pathway to growth and flourishing? Or do we, like the scorner, bristle at rebuke, allowing pride to close our ears and harden our hearts? This verse challenges us to cultivate a humble posture, recognizing that wisdom is not about knowing everything, but about being open to learning, even when the lessons come in the form of difficult truths or necessary discipline. This applies to all areas of life: our families, workplaces, communities, and especially our spiritual walk. For parents and mentors, it highlights the dual responsibility of providing clear, loving instruction and fostering an environment where children and disciples feel safe to receive correction, understanding its redemptive purpose. Embracing instruction, even when it stings, is a mark of maturity and a prerequisite for walking in the abundant life God intends.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you most receptive to instruction and correction? In what areas do you tend to be a "scorner"?**
* **How do you typically react when someone offers you constructive criticism or rebuke? What does that reaction reveal about your heart?**
* **As a parent or mentor, how can you better provide "instruction" that is both clear and received, encouraging a "wise son" disposition?**
* **What specific steps can you take to cultivate a more humble and teachable spirit in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What is the core difference between a "wise son" and a "scorner" in this proverb?**

Answer: The core difference lies in their disposition towards instruction and correction. A "wise son" demonstrates humility and teachability; he actively "heareth" (meaning he understands, accepts, and obeys) his father's instruction, recognizing its value for his growth and well-being. In contrast, a "scorner" is characterized by arrogance and an unwillingness to learn; he "heareth not rebuke," meaning he rejects, disdains, and often mocks any form of correction or discipline. This distinction highlights that wisdom is less about intellectual capacity and more about a receptive heart that values guidance, whereas folly is rooted in pride and a closed mind, as seen throughout the wisdom literature (e.g., [Proverbs 9:7-8](/proverbs/9-7 "Proverbs 9:7-8 - Do Not Rebuke a Scorner")).

**Why is "instruction" (musar) so important in the book of Proverbs?**

Answer: "Instruction" (Hebrew: *musar*) in Proverbs is a comprehensive term that encompasses discipline, moral training, correction, and warning. It's crucial because it's the primary means by which wisdom is imparted and character is shaped. Proverbs consistently teaches that human beings are prone to folly and error, and *musar* serves as the necessary guidance to steer them toward righteousness, prudence, and a life that honors God. It's often presented as a paternal gift, essential for avoiding pitfalls and achieving a flourishing life, as emphasized in passages like [Proverbs 4:1-4](/proverbs/4-1 "Proverbs 4:1-4 - Hear, My Sons, Your Father's Instruction"). Rejecting *musar* is tantamount to rejecting the path of life itself.

**Does "heareth" imply more than just listening in this context?**

Answer: Absolutely. In biblical Hebrew, the verb *shama* (to hear) often carries a much deeper meaning than mere auditory perception. When the wise son "heareth" his father's instruction, it implies not only listening with attention but also understanding, internalizing, accepting, and, most importantly, obeying. It signifies a responsive and submissive heart that acts upon what is heard. Conversely, the scorner's failure to "hear" rebuke means a deliberate refusal to acknowledge, process, or comply with the correction, highlighting their stubborn and rebellious spirit. This active sense of "hearing" is fundamental to biblical faith, where hearing God's word is inextricably linked to doing it (e.g., [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - Hear, O Israel")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 13:1 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who perfectly embodies the "wise son" and confronts the "scorner." As the eternal Son of God, Jesus perfectly "heareth" His Father's instruction, demonstrating absolute obedience even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). He is the embodiment of divine Wisdom, through whom all things were made ([Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - All Things Created Through Christ")). Unlike the scorner, Jesus never rejected rebuke or instruction; rather, He lived a life of perfect submission, declaring, "I always do what pleases him" ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does What Pleases the Father")). Moreover, Jesus Himself offered ultimate instruction and rebuke to a world steeped in folly. He spoke with authority, calling people to repentance and faith, but was often met with the scorn and rejection of those who refused to hear His truth ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own, and His Own Did Not Receive Him")). His life, death, and resurrection serve as the ultimate "instruction" for humanity, revealing God's wisdom and providing the means for us to become truly wise sons and daughters who "hear" and obey the voice of our Heavenly Father, through faith in Him ([Hebrews 5:8-9](/hebrews/5-8 "Hebrews 5:8-9 - Jesus Learned Obedience and Became the Source of Eternal Salvation")).

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 15:5

¶ 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.