Proverbs 24:9

The thought of foolishness [is] sin: and the scorner [is] an abomination to men.

The thought {H2154} of foolishness {H200} is sin {H2403}: and the scorner {H3887} is an abomination {H8441} to men {H120}.

The evil plans of the foolish are sin, and people detest a scorner.

A foolish scheme is sin, and a mocker is detestable to men.

The thought of foolishness is sin; And the scoffer is an abomination to men.

Commentary on Proverbs 24:9

Proverbs 24:9 delivers a profound dual warning, highlighting the insidious nature of sin's origin and the societal detestation of the scorner. This verse serves as a crucial reminder within the wisdom literature of the importance of internal purity and the consequences of a cynical attitude.

Context

This verse is part of a larger collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, which frequently contrasts the path of the wise with the way of the fool. Proverbs 24:1-12 specifically warns against envy of evil men, emphasizes the power of wisdom in building and strengthening, and underscores the importance of righteous judgment. This particular proverb zeroes in on the internal state—thoughts and attitudes—as foundational to one's character and actions, echoing the book's consistent theme that true wisdom begins in the heart and mind.

Key Themes

  • The Origin of Sin: The first clause, "The thought of foolishness is sin," powerfully asserts that sin does not merely manifest in outward actions but originates in the mind and heart. "Foolishness" here (Hebrew: 'iwweleth) is not just intellectual deficiency but a moral perversity, a rejection of wisdom and God's ways. This idea anticipates later New Testament teachings on the internal source of defilement, as seen in Matthew 15:19, where Jesus teaches that evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, etc., come from within.
  • The Nature of a Scorner: The second part, "and the scorner is an abomination to men," describes a distinct character type. A "scorner" (Hebrew: lets) is someone who mocks, ridicules, and scoffs at truth, righteousness, and often God himself. They are arrogant, cynical, and resistant to correction. This attitude makes them detestable, not only in the eyes of God but also among right-thinking, moral people. The book of Psalms also warns against associating with such individuals, as in Psalm 1:1, which states that the blessed man does not sit in the seat of the scornful.
  • Consequences of Internal Folly and Scorn: The verse highlights that both the internal state of foolish thinking and the outward display of scorn have severe negative consequences. Foolish thoughts lead to sin, and a scornful attitude leads to societal rejection and detestation.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "foolishness," 'iwweleth, carries a strong connotation of moral depravity and a deliberate turning away from wisdom, rather than mere silliness or lack of intelligence. It signifies a disposition that is contrary to God's revealed will. The word "sin," chatta'th, means "missing the mark," emphasizing a deviation from God's standard. The "scorner," lets, is characterized by arrogance and a mocking spirit, often directed at divine truth or moral instruction. The term "abomination," to'evah, is frequently used in scripture to describe something utterly detestable or disgusting, often in the context of things God hates, such as idolatry or perverse acts. Here, its application "to men" emphasizes that such a character is repugnant even in human society.

Practical Application

Proverbs 24:9 calls believers to cultivate inner purity and guard their thoughts diligently. It teaches that the battle against sin begins in the mind; therefore, we must be intentional about what we allow to dwell there. This aligns with Paul's exhortation to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. Furthermore, it warns against developing a scornful attitude, which alienates others and is an affront to God. Instead, we are encouraged to embrace humility, wisdom, and a teachable spirit, recognizing that true wisdom leads to life and favor, while folly and scorn lead to destruction and contempt.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 15:19

    For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:5

    Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

  • Isaiah 55:7

    Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

  • Acts 8:22

    Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

  • Proverbs 29:8

    ¶ Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise [men] turn away wrath.

  • Proverbs 24:8

    He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

  • Matthew 9:4

    And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back