Proverbs 9:7

KJV

He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked [man getteth] himself a blot.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that reproveth {H3256} a scorner {H3887} getteth {H3947} to himself shame {H7036}: and he that rebuketh {H3198} a wicked {H7563} man getteth himself a blot {H3971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"He who corrects a scoffer only gets insulted; reproving a wicked man becomes his blemish.

Berean Standard Bible

He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself.

American Standard Version

He that correcteth a scoffer getteth to himself reviling; And he that reproveth a wicked man getteth himself a blot.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 9:7 offers a profound piece of wisdom, cautioning against the futility and negative repercussions of attempting to correct or instruct individuals who are fundamentally closed off to truth and instruction. It highlights that engaging in reproof with a "scorner" or a "wicked man" will not only prove ineffective in changing their behavior but will also result in personal shame and disgrace for the well-intentioned reprover, serving as a vital lesson in discernment regarding the audience for wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader literary framework of Proverbs chapters 1-9, a section often referred to as "Wisdom's Call." Here, Wisdom is personified as a woman who actively invites all to embrace her ways, contrasting sharply with the allure of Folly. Proverbs 9 specifically depicts Wisdom building her house and preparing a feast, extending an invitation to the "simple" and those "lacking understanding" (Proverbs 9:1-6). Immediately following this universal invitation, Proverbs 9:7 introduces a critical caveat: while Wisdom calls to all, not all are receptive. It serves as a necessary qualification, distinguishing between those who can be taught and those who are hardened against instruction, thereby setting the stage for the contrasting advice in [Proverbs 9:8](/proverbs/9-8 "Proverbs 9:8 - Reproving the Wise vs. the Scorner").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom was highly valued and often transmitted through oral tradition and formal instruction within family and community settings. The role of a sage or a wise person was to offer guidance and correction. However, the culture also recognized different categories of individuals based on their receptivity to wisdom: the "simple" (naive), the "fool" (lacking moral sense), and the "scorner" (actively hostile to wisdom). Proverbs 9:7 addresses the latter, recognizing that some individuals, due to their ingrained character and deliberate rejection of moral truth, are beyond the reach of conventional reproof. This understanding was crucial for maintaining social harmony and personal integrity within the community, as futile attempts at correction could lead to social ostracism or personal dishonor for the one offering the rebuke.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme of Proverbs 9:7 is the **discernment of audience for reproof**. It underscores the **futility of attempting to correct a scorner**, emphasizing that such an individual is not merely ignorant but actively hostile to wisdom, often responding with mockery or ridicule. This highlights the **nature of the scorner and wicked man** as those whose hearts are hardened and whose lives are characterized by unrighteousness, rendering them impervious to constructive criticism. Consequently, the verse points to the **negative consequences for the reprover**, warning that their well-intentioned efforts will not only be ineffective but will also rebound as "shame" and a "blot" upon themselves, potentially damaging their reputation or causing personal disgrace. This theme is echoed in other wisdom literature, such as [Proverbs 23:9](/proverbs/23-9 "Proverbs 23:9 - Speak Not in the Ears of a Fool"), which advises against speaking in the ears of a fool.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **reproveth (Hebrew, _yâçar'_):** (H3256) This primitive root signifies to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct. In this context, it refers to the act of providing moral correction, discipline, or instruction, often with the intent to bring about reform or improvement in character or conduct. It implies a firm but corrective intervention.
* **scorner (Hebrew, _lûwts'_):** (H3887) A primitive root meaning, properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff. From this, it extends to one who is contemptuous, a mocker, or a scoffer. In Proverbs, a "scorner" is not merely someone who lacks wisdom but one who actively despises and ridicules it, often with an arrogant and defiant attitude towards moral authority and divine truth.
* **blot (Hebrew, _mʼûwm'_):** (H3971) Usually _mûwm_, as if a passive participle from an unused root probably meaning to stain. It refers to a blemish (physically or morally), a spot, or a defect. In this verse, it signifies a stain on one's reputation, honor, or character, indicating that the act of reproving a wicked person will result in a moral or social marring for the reprover.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame":** This clause warns that attempting to offer correction or instruction to an individual who actively scoffs at wisdom and truth will not be received positively. Instead of leading to the scorner's repentance or understanding, the reprover will experience personal disgrace, humiliation, or public ridicule. The scorner's hardened heart means the rebuke is not only ineffective but also turns the tables, causing the reprover to suffer a loss of dignity or respect.
* **"and he that rebuketh a wicked [man getteth] himself a blot":** This second clause reinforces the first through synonymous parallelism, extending the warning to those who attempt to admonish a "wicked man." The term "rebuketh" (H3198, _yâkach_) implies a strong argument or conviction. Just as with the scorner, confronting a wicked person—one characterized by unrighteousness and disregard for God's ways—will not result in their reform. Instead, the reprover will incur a "blot," a blemish or stain on their reputation, perhaps through slander, false accusations, or simply by being dragged into the wicked person's moral mire.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 9:7 primarily employs **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second half of the verse reiterates the thought of the first half using different but equivalent words. "Reproveth a scorner" is paralleled by "rebuketh a wicked man," and "getteth to himself shame" is paralleled by "getteth himself a blot." This repetition serves to emphasize the central warning and reinforce the inevitability of the negative consequences. An implicit **Contrast** is also at play, as this verse stands in direct opposition to the subsequent verse ([Proverbs 9:8](/proverbs/9-8 "Proverbs 9:8 - Reproving the Wise")), which advocates for reproving the wise. This juxtaposition highlights the crucial importance of discernment in applying wisdom. The terms "shame" and "blot" also function as **Figurative Language**, representing abstract concepts of dishonor and disgrace in a concrete, impactful way.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 9:7 offers a profound theological insight into the nature of human resistance to divine truth and the wisdom required in its dissemination. It teaches that while God's wisdom is freely offered, not all hearts are prepared to receive it. The scorner and the wicked man represent those who have actively chosen a path of rebellion, hardening themselves against correction, much like Pharaoh's hardened heart against God's commands in [Exodus 7:3](/exodus/7-3 "Exodus 7:3 - The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart"). The verse underscores the principle that divine truth, while powerful, is not to be indiscriminately cast before those who will only trample upon it and turn to attack the messenger. This echoes Jesus' teaching in the New Testament about discerning the audience for sacred truths.

* [Matthew 7:6](/matthew/7-6 "Matthew 7:6 - Do Not Cast Pearls Before Swine")
* [Proverbs 23:9](/proverbs/23-9 "Proverbs 23:9 - Speak Not in the Ears of a Fool")
* [Titus 3:10](/titus/3-10 "Titus 3:10 - Reject a Divisive Person")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 9:7 provides invaluable guidance for navigating interpersonal relationships, particularly when confronted with the impulse to correct or instruct others. It challenges us to cultivate spiritual discernment, recognizing that not every individual is open to receiving truth, especially those who have actively embraced a posture of scoffing or wickedness. This verse does not advocate for silence in the face of injustice or evil, but rather for prudence and wisdom in how and to whom we offer correction. It teaches us to protect our peace, preserve our witness, and avoid engaging in futile arguments that can lead to personal discredit or emotional exhaustion. Instead, our efforts should be strategically directed towards those who genuinely seek wisdom, are humble, and are receptive to growth, ensuring that our words are sown on fertile ground where they can bear fruit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I discern between someone who is genuinely open to correction and a "scorner" who will only mock or resist?**
* **What are the potential "shame" or "blots" I might incur when attempting to correct someone who is unwilling to change?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to waste my energy on unproductive arguments, and how can I redirect my efforts toward more fruitful interactions?**
* **How does this proverb inform my approach to evangelism or sharing difficult truths with others?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean we should never confront wicked people or share the gospel with scorners?**

Answer: This verse does not suggest a complete abandonment of engagement with wicked people or the sharing of the gospel. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of **discernment** and **prudence**. It warns against the *futility* of attempting to *reprove* or *rebuke* those who are fundamentally resistant and hostile to truth, as such efforts will likely result in personal shame or a blot for the reprover, without yielding any positive change in the scorner. The gospel, as a message of salvation, is for all, but the *manner* and *context* of its delivery, especially when it involves direct confrontation or correction, must be guided by wisdom. Jesus himself taught his disciples to shake the dust off their feet if a town would not receive them ([Matthew 10:14](/matthew/10-14 "Matthew 10:14 - Shaking Off the Dust")), indicating a time to move on from those who are utterly unreceptive. It's about recognizing when direct confrontation is unproductive and potentially harmful to the messenger's integrity or witness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 9:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound resonance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb warns against the futility of reproving scorners, Jesus, the embodiment of divine Wisdom ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")), perfectly exemplified discernment in His interactions. He consistently offered truth and healing to the receptive, yet He also encountered profound resistance and scorn from those hardened in their wickedness, particularly the religious leaders of His day. Despite their mockery and rejection, Jesus did not shrink from speaking truth, even knowing it would lead to His ultimate suffering. He willingly took upon Himself the ultimate "shame" and "blot" of humanity's sin on the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross, Despising the Shame")), becoming a "reproach of men" ([Psalm 22:6](/psalm/22-6 "Psalm 22:6 - A Reproach of Men")) so that those who believe might find redemption and honor. His sacrifice transformed the very concept of shame and blot, turning the disgrace of the cross into the glory of salvation, demonstrating that while human reproof of the scorner is futile, God's perfect justice and love ultimately prevail over all wickedness, even through apparent shame.

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

Proverbs 15:12

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

Proverbs 23:9

¶ Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

2 Chronicles 25:15

Wherefore the anger of the LORD was kindled against Amaziah, and he sent unto him a prophet, which said unto him, Why hast thou sought after the gods of the people, which could not deliver their own people out of thine hand?

2 Chronicles 25:16

And it came to pass, as he talked with him, that [the king] said unto him, Art thou made of the king's counsel? forbear; why shouldest thou be smitten? Then the prophet forbare, and said, I know that God hath determined to destroy thee, because thou hast done this, and hast not hearkened unto my counsel.

2 Chronicles 36:16

But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against his people, till [there was] no remedy.

2 Chronicles 24:20

And the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest, which stood above the people, and said unto them, Thus saith God, Why transgress ye the commandments of the LORD, that ye cannot prosper? because ye have forsaken the LORD, he hath also forsaken you.

2 Chronicles 24:22

Thus Joash the king remembered not the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but slew his son. And when he died, he said, The LORD look upon [it], and require [it].