Proverbs 15:12

ยถ A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

A scorner {H3887} loveth {H157} not one that reproveth {H3198} him: neither will he go {H3212} unto the wise {H2450}.

A scorner does not like being corrected; he won't go to the wise [for advice].

A mocker does not love to be reproved, nor will he consult the wise.

A scoffer loveth not to be reproved; He will not go unto the wise.

Commentary

Proverbs 15:12 offers a sharp insight into the character and consequences of a "scorner," contrasting their behavior with the path of wisdom. This verse highlights a fundamental barrier to growth and understanding: the unwillingness to be corrected or to seek wise counsel.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon, designed to impart practical wisdom for daily living and to teach the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). Throughout its chapters, Proverbs frequently contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, and in this verse, the humble and the scorner. It emphasizes that a receptive heart is essential for acquiring wisdom and living a virtuous life.

Key Themes

  • Resistance to Reproof: The core message is that a scorner actively dislikes and rejects correction. They see reproof not as an opportunity for improvement but as a personal attack or an insult. This aversion prevents them from learning from their mistakes or from others' insights.
  • Rejection of Wisdom: Because they refuse correction, scorners also isolate themselves from wise individuals. They "will not go unto the wise," meaning they do not seek counsel, listen to instruction, or humble themselves to learn from those who possess knowledge and discernment. This self-imposed isolation hinders their personal and spiritual development.
  • Pride and Stubbornness: The attitude of a scorner is rooted in profound pride and stubbornness. They believe they know best, or they are too arrogant to admit fault, which makes them impervious to external guidance. This is in stark contrast to the wise person who hearkens unto counsel.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "scorner" is leitz (ืœึตืฅ). This term denotes more than just someone who disagrees or is critical; it refers to an individual who is cynical, mockingly arrogant, and disdainful of wisdom, instruction, and often, even God. The "reproveth" (yokhiแธฅo) implies a strong, often corrective, form of instruction aimed at conviction or demonstrating error. The scorner's disdain is not just for the message but for the person delivering it, highlighting their deep-seated resistance to truth and humility.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful call to self-reflection. Are we open to correction and constructive criticism? Do we actively seek out wise counsel, even when it might challenge our existing beliefs or comfort zones? Embracing a teachable spirit, rather than the stubbornness of a scorner, is crucial for personal growth, spiritual maturity, and healthy relationships. Being willing to accept reproof and learn from the wise is a hallmark of true wisdom and humility, leading to a life of increasing understanding and blessing.

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

  • Amos 5:10

    They hate him that rebuketh in the gate, and they abhor him that speaketh uprightly.

  • Job 21:14

    Therefore they say unto God, Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways.

  • 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.

  • John 3:18

    He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

  • John 3:21

    But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

  • 2 Chronicles 18:7

    And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, [There is] yet one man, by whom we may enquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he never prophesied good unto me, but always evil: the same [is] Micaiah the son of Imla. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.
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