Proverbs 21:11

ยถ When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

When the scorner {H3887} is punished {H6064}, the simple {H6612} is made wise {H2449}: and when the wise {H2450} is instructed {H7919}, he receiveth {H3947} knowledge {H1847}.

When a scorner is punished, the simple become wiser; and when the wise is instructed, he takes hold of knowledge.

When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; And when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

Commentary

Proverbs 21:11 offers a profound insight into the different ways people acquire wisdom and knowledge, contrasting the lessons learned through negative example with the continuous growth of the discerning heart. It highlights the educational power of observation and the humility required for true intellectual and spiritual development.

Context

This verse is part of the book of Proverbs, a collection of wisdom sayings primarily attributed to King Solomon. The book frequently uses contrasts to illustrate moral and spiritual truths, often pitting the wise against the foolish, the righteous against the wicked, and in this case, the scorner against the simple and the wise. Proverbs aims to impart practical wisdom for daily living, emphasizing discernment, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom.

Key Themes

  • Learning Through Observation: The first part of the verse, "When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise," emphasizes indirect learning. The "scorner" (Hebrew: ืœึตืฅ, letz) is one who mocks, ridicules, and disdains wisdom, instruction, and often God Himself. Their stubborn refusal to learn leads to inevitable negative consequences or "punishment." Observing these outcomes serves as a powerful, cautionary lesson for the "simple" (Hebrew: ืคึฐึผืชึดื™, pethi), who are naive, impressionable, and lacking discernment but are open to instruction. They gain wisdom not by experiencing the pain themselves, but by witnessing the folly of others. This underscores the importance of avoiding the path of the scorner.
  • Continuous Growth of the Wise: The second part, "and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge," speaks to the ongoing nature of wisdom. The "wise" (Hebrew: ื—ึธื›ึธื, chakham) person already possesses discernment and a foundation of knowledge. Unlike the scorner, they are humble and eager to learn more. When such a person receives instruction, their existing wisdom is not just confirmed but deepened and expanded, leading to greater knowledge. This principle is reinforced in Proverbs 9:9, which states that instructing a wise man makes him yet wiser.
  • Consequences and Discernment: The verse implicitly teaches that actions have consequences. The scorner's rebellion leads to their downfall, a clear demonstration of the principle of reaping what one sows. For the simple, this provides a vital lesson in discernment, helping them choose the path of wisdom over folly. For the wise, it affirms the value of their chosen path and encourages continued pursuit of truth.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "scorner" (ืœึตืฅ, letz) carries the connotation of someone who is arrogant, defiant, and resistant to correction. They are often characterized by their pride and disdain for authority or divine principles.
  • The "simple" (ืคึฐึผืชึดื™, pethi) is not necessarily unintelligent, but rather someone who is easily persuaded or lacks critical discernment. They are susceptible to influence but also capable of learning and being guided towards wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 1:4.
  • The "wise" (ื—ึธื›ึธื, chakham) person is one who is skilled in living, discerning, and often characterized by their reverence for God and application of His principles.

Practical Application

Proverbs 21:11 offers several practical takeaways for believers and those seeking wisdom today:

  • Be Observant: Pay attention to the outcomes of others' choices. We can learn valuable lessons from both the successes and failures we observe around us, especially the negative consequences of pride and rebellion.
  • Cultivate Humility: True wisdom is never stagnant. Even those who are already wise should remain humble and open to new instruction, recognizing that there is always more to learn. This humility is key to receiving God's grace and wisdom.
  • Guard Against Scorn: Avoid adopting a scornful attitude, which closes one off to truth and leads to eventual downfall. Instead, embrace a teachable spirit.
  • Seek Instruction: Actively pursue knowledge and understanding from reliable sources, whether through scripture, godly mentors, or life experiences.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that wisdom is a journey, not a destination, accessible through various means, and always rewarding for the humble heart.

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

  • Proverbs 19:25

    ยถ Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, [and] he will understand knowledge.

  • Proverbs 18:15

    ยถ The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

  • 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.

  • Acts 5:5

    And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.

  • Proverbs 18:1

    ยถ Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh [and] intermeddleth with all wisdom.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:6

    ยถ Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:11

    Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
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