Proverbs 9:7

Proverbs 9:7 offers a sharp piece of practical wisdom, warning against the futility and negative consequences of attempting to correct those who are fundamentally resistant to truth and instruction.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in the Book of Proverbs (chapters 1-9) that personifies Wisdom as a woman calling out to humanity, inviting them to her feast and her ways. It contrasts Wisdom with Folly, presenting clear choices and their outcomes. Proverbs 9:7 specifically addresses the challenging scenario of attempting to share wisdom or reproof with individuals who have no desire to receive it, particularly the "scorner" and the "wicked man." This verse serves as a crucial piece of discernment, guiding individuals on when to engage in correction and when to hold back, recognizing that not all ears are open to truth.

Key Themes

• The Futility of Reproving a Scorner: The primary message is that attempting to correct a "scorner" is a fruitless endeavor. A scorner is not merely ignorant but actively hostile to wisdom and correction, often responding with mockery or ridicule. Their hardened hearts are impenetrable to rebuke.
• The Nature of the Scorner and Wicked Man: A "scorner" (Hebrew: letz) is someone who mocks sacred things, ridicules instruction, and scoffs at truth. They are distinct from the simple-minded or even the fool, as their rejection of wisdom is active and often aggressive. The "wicked man" (Hebrew: rasha) is one whose life is characterized by unrighteousness and a disregard for God's ways. Both types are characterized by an unwillingness to change or listen.
• Consequences for the Reprover: The verse states that the one who reproves a scorner "getteth to himself shame" and "a blot." This implies that the attempt at correction will not only be ineffective but will also backfire on the one offering it. They might be ridiculed, despised, or even slandered, leading to personal disgrace or a blemish on their reputation. This highlights the importance of discerning the audience for correction, as seen in the contrasting advice in Proverbs 9:8, which advises reproving a wise man.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "reproveth" is yasar (יָסַר), which implies discipline, instruction, or correction. The term for "scorner" is letz (לֵץ), denoting someone who is contemptuous, a mocker, or a scoffer. This character appears frequently in Proverbs, representing a person who has crossed a line from ignorance to active disdain for wisdom and righteousness. The word "rebuketh" is hokhiach (הוֹכִיחַ), meaning to argue, convict, or admonish. The "wicked man" is rasha (רָשָׁע), referring to the unrighteous or the guilty. The outcomes, "shame" (qalon, קָלוֹן) and "blot" (mum, מוּם), signify disgrace, ignominy, or a blemish, respectively, emphasizing the negative repercussions for the well-intentioned reprover.

Practical Application

Proverbs 9:7 offers timeless wisdom for navigating interactions, particularly when attempting to offer correction or share truth. It teaches the importance of spiritual discernment:

• Discern Your Audience: Not everyone is open to correction or spiritual truth. This verse advises against wasting energy on those who actively mock or resist, as it will likely lead to frustration and personal detriment.
• Protect Your Peace and Witness: Engaging in arguments with scorners often leads to unnecessary conflict, emotional drain, and can even damage one's credibility or reputation. It echoes the sentiment found in Jesus' teaching about not casting pearls before swine.
• Focus on the Receptive: Instead, efforts should be directed towards those who are humble, open to learning, and genuinely seeking wisdom. These are the ones who will benefit from instruction and correction.
• Know When to Withdraw: Recognizing when to disengage from unproductive or hostile conversations is a mark of wisdom. This doesn't mean abandoning evangelism or standing for truth, but rather exercising prudence in how and with whom one engages in deep spiritual or moral discussions.

In essence, Proverbs 9:7 is a call to wisdom in communication, urging believers to be strategic and discerning with their words, reserving reproof for those who might actually benefit from it.