Proverbs 17:10

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

A reproof {H1606} entereth {H5181} more into a wise man {H995} than an hundred {H3967} stripes {H5221} into a fool {H3684}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A rebuke makes more impression on a person of understanding than a hundred blows on a fool.

Berean Standard Bible

A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment deeper than a hundred lashes cut into a fool.

American Standard Version

A rebuke entereth deeper into one that hath understanding Than a hundred stripes into a fool.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 17:10 profoundly contrasts the receptivity of a wise person with the stubborn resistance of a fool, asserting that a verbal rebuke or correction penetrates and impacts a discerning individual more deeply than even severe physical punishment affects one who is obstinately foolish. This proverb highlights the internal disposition as the key determinant of effective discipline and growth, emphasizing that true wisdom lies in a teachable spirit, while folly is characterized by an impenetrable hardness of heart.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 17:10 is situated within a larger collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, particularly within the "Proverbs of Solomon" (chapters 10-22). This section is characterized by a series of antithetical parallelism, where two contrasting ideas are presented to illuminate a truth, often highlighting the differences between the righteous/wise and the wicked/foolish. Immediately preceding this verse, Proverbs 17:9 discusses the importance of overlooking a transgression for love's sake, while a repeated matter alienates friends. Following it, Proverbs 17:11 speaks of the rebellious seeking only evil, and a cruel messenger being sent against them. Thus, verse 10 fits seamlessly into the broader theme of discerning character, the consequences of actions, and the nature of effective communication and discipline within human relationships and before God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in much of the ancient Near East, physical discipline, including "stripes" or beatings, was a recognized and often practiced method of correction, particularly for children, servants, or those who committed offenses. The Law itself prescribed limits for such punishment (e.g., [Deuteronomy 25:3](/deuteronomy/25-3 "Deuteronomy 25:3 - Limit on Stripes")). However, the wisdom literature, including Proverbs, consistently elevates the power of verbal instruction, counsel, and rebuke as superior forms of guidance, especially for those capable of reason. The "wise man" (חָכָם, *chakham*) was a respected figure, one who understood and applied divine truth, while the "fool" (כְּסִיל, *kesil*) was not merely intellectually deficient but morally perverse, resistant to God's ways and wisdom, often depicted as beyond the reach of conventional discipline, as seen in [Proverbs 27:22](/proverbs/27-22 "Proverbs 27:22 - Grinding a Fool").
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it underscores the **nature of wisdom and folly**, portraying wisdom not merely as knowledge but as a receptive, teachable spirit, and folly as an unyielding, stubborn disposition. Secondly, it speaks to the **efficacy of discipline and correction**, demonstrating that the effectiveness of any corrective measure is determined by the recipient's internal character, rather than the severity of the punishment. A gentle word can transform the wise, while harsh measures fail to penetrate the fool. Thirdly, it highlights the **power of words**; for the wise, a well-placed "reproof" (גְּעָרָה, *gᵉʻârâh*) carries immense weight and transformative potential, emphasizing the spiritual and intellectual depth required to process and apply such counsel. This theme resonates with other proverbs that emphasize the life-giving nature of wise instruction (e.g., [Proverbs 4:13](/proverbs/4-13 "Proverbs 4:13 - Hold Fast to Instruction")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Reproof (Hebrew, _gᵉʻârâh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to chide" or "to rebuke," *gᵉʻârâh* signifies a strong, authoritative warning or censure. It is not a gentle suggestion but a forceful correction intended to bring about a realization of error and a change in behavior. The word implies a divine or authoritative source of correction, carrying weight and moral authority.
* **Wise Man (Hebrew, _bîyn'_):** While the KJV uses "wise man," the Strong's H995 points to the root *bîyn*, meaning "to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e. (generally) understand." This highlights that a "wise man" is not just intelligent but possesses discernment, the ability to perceive truth, distinguish right from wrong, and apply understanding to life. Such a person is characterized by a teachable spirit and an openness to correction.
* **Fool (Hebrew, _kᵉçîyl'_):** From a root meaning "fat" or "stupid," *kᵉçîyl* describes a specific type of fool in Proverbs—one who is morally deficient, obstinate, and resistant to wisdom and correction. This is not a lack of intelligence but a willful rejection of truth and a stubborn adherence to one's own perverse ways, rendering them impervious to even extreme forms of discipline.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A reproof entereth more into a wise man":** This clause establishes the receptivity of the wise. A "reproof" (a sharp, authoritative rebuke) "entereth" (Hebrew *nâchath*, to sink, descend, press down, settle) into them. This signifies that the correction penetrates their understanding, sinks into their conscience, and settles deeply within their heart and mind, leading to introspection and genuine change. The emphasis is on the internal impact and transformative power of words for the discerning.
* **"than an hundred stripes into a fool."**: This clause presents the stark contrast. "An hundred stripes" (Hebrew *mêʼâh* for hundred, *nâkâh* for stripes/to strike) represents an extreme form of physical punishment, far beyond the legal limit of forty (Deuteronomy 25:3). Yet, even such severe and repeated physical pain fails to "enter" or impact the "fool." Their inherent stubbornness and moral obstinacy render external force utterly ineffective, highlighting the futility of trying to correct a heart that is unwilling to learn or change.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 17:10 masterfully employs **Antithetical Parallelism** to highlight the profound contrast between the wise and the fool. The two clauses present opposing ideas—the internal receptivity of the wise to a verbal reproof versus the external imperviousness of the fool to physical punishment—to underscore a single truth about the nature of character and effective discipline. The use of **Hyperbole** in "an hundred stripes" emphasizes the extreme futility of attempting to correct a fool through brute force. This exaggeration serves to magnify the fool's obstinacy and the inherent power of a simple word for the wise. The proverb also uses **Metaphor** where "reproof entereth" suggests a physical penetration, illustrating the deep, internal impact of correction on the wise, contrasting with the superficial effect of "stripes" on the fool.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb speaks profoundly to the biblical understanding of the human heart and the nature of true transformation. It teaches that the effectiveness of discipline is not in the severity of the method but in the disposition of the recipient. God's wisdom, often conveyed through His Word and the counsel of His people, is designed to penetrate and transform the receptive heart, leading to repentance and righteousness. Conversely, those who harden their hearts against divine truth, like the fool, remain untouched by even the most severe consequences or judgments. This highlights the sovereignty of human choice in responding to God's call and correction, emphasizing that a teachable spirit is paramount for spiritual growth and maturity.

* [Proverbs 9:8](/proverbs/9-8 "Proverbs 9:8 - Do Not Reprove a Scoffer")
* [James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Be Doers of the Word")
* [Hebrews 12:5-6](/hebrews/12-5 "Hebrews 12:5-6 - God Disciplines Those He Loves")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 17:10 serves as a powerful mirror for self-examination, urging us to cultivate a heart that is open and receptive to correction, whether it comes from God's Word, a trusted friend, or life's difficult lessons. True wisdom is demonstrated not by knowing everything, but by being humble enough to acknowledge our shortcomings and allow constructive criticism to "enter" and shape us. This verse challenges us to consider if we are more like the wise person, who values a word of truth more than physical pain, or the fool, whose stubbornness makes all efforts at correction futile. For those in positions of leadership, parenting, or mentorship, it offers a crucial insight: effective discipline begins with discerning the heart of the individual. For a receptive person, thoughtful instruction and gentle rebuke are far more potent than harsh punishment. For the obstinate, external measures may be necessary for societal order, but they will not produce genuine internal change without a change of heart.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Am I quick to listen to and internalize constructive criticism, or do I tend to resist it?**
* **How does my response to correction reflect my spiritual maturity and teachability?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a more receptive and humble heart to God's Word and the counsel of others?**
* **When I am called to correct others, how can I discern their heart's disposition to apply the most effective form of discipline?**

### FAQ

**What is the primary difference between a "wise man" and a "fool" in Proverbs?**

Answer: In Proverbs, the "wise man" (often related to the Hebrew *chakham* or *bîyn*) is characterized by a fear of the Lord, a love for instruction, and a teachable spirit. They are discerning, understand truth, and apply it to their lives, leading to righteousness and flourishing. The "fool" (often *kᵉçîyl* or *ʼĕwîl*), on the other hand, is not merely intellectually dull but morally perverse and obstinate. They despise wisdom and instruction, are resistant to correction, and are characterized by stubbornness and self-will, leading to ruin and destruction. The distinction is primarily moral and spiritual, not merely intellectual.

**Does this proverb suggest that physical punishment is never effective?**

Answer: Not necessarily. The proverb highlights that for a fool, even extreme physical punishment is *less effective* than a verbal reproof for a wise person. It underscores the futility of external measures on a hardened heart. While physical discipline was a recognized practice in ancient Israel and is acknowledged in other proverbs (e.g., [Proverbs 22:15](/proverbs/22-15 "Proverbs 22:15 - Foolishness Bound in the Heart of a Child")), this verse emphasizes that true, internal change comes from a receptive heart, not from the severity of the punishment itself. For the fool, the problem is an internal unwillingness to change, which no amount of external pain can overcome.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 17:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies divine wisdom and demonstrates the transformative power of truth on receptive hearts, while also exposing the impenetrable folly of those who reject Him. Jesus, as the very "wisdom of God" (cf. [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")), continually offered reproof and instruction. His words, though seemingly simple, penetrated the hearts of His disciples, leading them to repentance, faith, and profound transformation (e.g., [John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - Words of Spirit and Life")). They were the "wise men" who heard His words and built their house on the rock (cf. [Matthew 7:24](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")). Conversely, the religious leaders of His day, despite witnessing His miracles and hearing His authoritative teaching, remained hardened in their folly. No amount of divine demonstration or sharp rebuke could penetrate their obstinate hearts (e.g., [John 12:37-40](/john/12-37 "John 12:37-40 - Unbelief of the People")). Jesus' suffering on the cross, the ultimate "stripes" (cf. [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - By His Stripes We Are Healed")), was not intended to force change upon the unwilling, but to provide redemption for those whose hearts, though previously foolish, were made receptive by grace. His life and ministry perfectly illustrate that true change is an internal work of grace, responding to the penetrating wisdom of God, rather than merely an external response to pain or coercion.

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

Revelation 3:19

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

Proverbs 9:8

Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.

Proverbs 9:9

Give [instruction] to a wise [man], and he will be yet wiser: teach a just [man], and he will increase in learning.

Proverbs 29:19

¶ A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.

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 13:1

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

Proverbs 15:5

¶ A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.