Proverbs 9:8

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Reprove {H3198} not a scorner {H3887}, lest he hate {H8130} thee: rebuke {H3198} a wise man {H2450}, and he will love {H157} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

If you reprove a scoffer, he will hate you; if you reprove a wise man, he will love you.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 9:8 offers a profound instruction on the discernment required in offering correction, contrasting the responses of two distinct character types: the scorner and the wise person. It warns against attempting to reprove a scorner, as such an act will likely provoke hatred and prove futile, given their inherent arrogance and resistance to truth. Conversely, the verse encourages rebuking a wise individual, predicting that this act of correction will be met with gratitude and love, as the wise are characterized by humility and a genuine desire for growth and understanding. This proverb underscores the importance of wisdom in communication, emphasizing that effective instruction requires careful consideration of the recipient's disposition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 9:8 is strategically placed within the climactic section of Proverbs 1-9, which serves as an extended parental discourse on the pursuit of wisdom. Chapter 9 itself personifies Wisdom and Folly as two women issuing invitations. Wisdom builds her house, prepares a feast, and sends out her maidens to call all who are simple to come and eat of her bread and drink of her wine, symbolizing the life-giving nourishment of divine truth and understanding ([Proverbs 9:1-5](/proverbs/9-1 "Proverbs 9:1-5 - Wisdom's Invitation")). In this grand invitation, verse 8 acts as a crucial caveat, instructing the reader on how to engage with different individuals in light of Wisdom's call. It highlights that while Wisdom offers herself freely, not everyone is receptive, and discernment is paramount in sharing her truths. The verse immediately follows a warning against correcting a scorner, lest one receive a blot, and precedes the affirmation that giving instruction to a wise man will increase his learning ([Proverbs 9:7-9](/proverbs/9-7 "Proverbs 9:7-9 - The Scorner and the Wise")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs emerges from the ancient Near Eastern tradition of wisdom literature, common across cultures like Egypt and Mesopotamia. In Israel, this tradition was rooted in the fear of the Lord, seen as the beginning of knowledge ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord")). Education and the transmission of practical wisdom for life were primarily familial responsibilities, often from father to son. The "wise man" (`châkâm`) was not merely intellectually astute but possessed moral and practical discernment, living in harmony with God's established order. The "scorner" (`lûwts`), on the other hand, represented a significant societal problem. Such individuals actively resisted instruction, mocked authority, and despised truth, often leading to social disruption and personal ruin. The cultural emphasis on honor and shame meant that public rebuke could be a powerful tool, but also a dangerous one if misapplied. This proverb, therefore, provides practical guidance for navigating social interactions and the delicate art of giving and receiving counsel within a community valuing wisdom and order.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Proverbs. The most prominent is **discernment in communication**, emphasizing that wisdom is not merely about possessing truth but knowing when and how to impart it. It highlights the stark **contrast between the wise and the foolish/scorner**, a foundational dichotomy throughout the book. The wise are characterized by **humility and teachability**, welcoming correction as a path to greater understanding and growth, aligning with the idea that "a wise man will hear, and will increase learning" ([Proverbs 1:5](/proverbs/1-5 "Proverbs 1:5 - The Wise Man's Learning")). In contrast, the scorner embodies **arrogance and resistance to truth**, viewing instruction as an attack on their pride, which leads to animosity. This underscores the theme of **receptivity to wisdom**, suggesting that the effectiveness of instruction depends more on the hearer's heart than the speaker's words. Ultimately, the verse teaches that true wisdom involves understanding human nature and adapting one's approach to foster love and growth rather than hatred and futility.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Reprove/Rebuke (Hebrew, _yâkach'_):** a primitive root; to be right (i.e. correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict; appoint, argue, chasten, convince, correct(-ion), daysman, dispute, judge, maintain, plead, reason (together), rebuke, reprove(-r), surely, in any wise.
* This word, appearing twice in the verse, signifies more than just a casual correction. It implies a forceful presentation of truth, an argument, or a conviction aimed at setting someone right. It carries the weight of authoritative instruction, often with the intent to bring about a change in behavior or understanding.
* **Scorner (Hebrew, _lûwts'_):** a primitive root; properly, to make mouths at, i.e. to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede; ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker, scorn(-er, -ful), teacher.
* A "scorner" is not merely someone who disagrees but one who actively mocks, ridicules, and despises wisdom, instruction, and often, God Himself. Their pride makes them impervious to correction; they view instruction as an insult rather than an opportunity for growth.
* **Wise man (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** from חָכַם; wise, (i.e. intelligent, skilful or artful); cunning (man), subtil, (un-), wise((hearted), man).
* This term denotes an individual who possesses practical wisdom, discernment, and moral insight. Unlike the scorner, the wise person is characterized by humility, an eagerness to learn, and a recognition that true wisdom comes from God and through instruction. They are open to correction because they value truth and personal growth above personal pride.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee:"** This clause delivers a stark warning. To "reprove" (yâkach) a scorner is to present them with truth or correction. However, the scorner, characterized by arrogance and a closed mind (lûwts), perceives such an act not as help but as an affront to their pride. Their response is not repentance or gratitude, but intense animosity and hatred (sânêʼ). The instruction is pragmatic: attempting to correct someone who is fundamentally resistant to truth is not only futile but also dangerous, risking personal enmity and wasting effort.
* **"rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee."** In striking contrast, this clause offers a positive injunction. The same act of "rebuking" (yâkach) – offering correction or instruction – when directed at a "wise man" (châkâm) yields an entirely different outcome. The wise person, characterized by humility and a desire for growth, recognizes the value of correction. They do not perceive it as an attack but as a sign of care and an opportunity to learn and improve. Consequently, their response is not hatred but love (ʼâhab) and appreciation for the one who offers the reproof. This highlights the wise person's teachability and their capacity to turn constructive criticism into personal advancement.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Proverbs 9:8 is **Antithetical Parallelism**. This structure presents two contrasting ideas or statements, where the second line expresses the opposite of the first, thereby highlighting the distinction between the two. Here, the actions and consequences regarding the "scorner" are directly opposed to those regarding the "wise man." Reproving a scorner leads to hatred, while rebuking a wise man leads to love. This sharp contrast underscores the central message of discernment. Additionally, the verse uses **Juxtaposition** to place the two opposing character types side-by-side, making their differences profoundly clear. The use of strong emotional responses—"hate" versus "love"—serves as **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extreme and predictable outcomes of interacting with these distinct personalities, reinforcing the proverb's practical wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 9:8 profoundly illustrates God's wisdom in human relationships and the nature of spiritual receptivity. It teaches that divine truth, while universally applicable, is not universally received. The scorner's hatred for correction reflects a deeper rebellion against wisdom itself, which, in Proverbs, is intrinsically linked to the fear of the Lord ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord")). Their closed heart reveals a spiritual condition resistant to God's instruction, indicating that true wisdom begins with a humble, teachable spirit. Conversely, the wise person's love for rebuke demonstrates a heart aligned with God's desire for growth and righteousness. This willingness to be corrected is a hallmark of spiritual maturity and a prerequisite for deepening one's understanding of God's ways. The proverb thus highlights that God's wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a transformative power that shapes character and fosters right relationships, both with God and with others.

* [Proverbs 15:12](/proverbs/15-12 "Proverbs 15:12 - The Scorner Hates Reproof")
* [Proverbs 1:5](/proverbs/1-5 "Proverbs 1:5 - A Wise Man Will Hear")
* [Proverbs 12:15](/proverbs/12-15 "Proverbs 12:15 - The Fool's Way vs. Wise Counsel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 9:8 offers invaluable, timeless guidance for navigating interpersonal relationships and for our own spiritual formation. It challenges us to cultivate profound discernment, recognizing that not all truth, however well-intentioned, is received equally by all. Before offering counsel or correction, we are called to prayerfully assess the heart of the recipient: are they genuinely open to growth, or are they entrenched in pride and resistance? This wisdom protects us from futile and potentially damaging confrontations, preserving our peace and energy for those who truly desire to learn. Furthermore, the verse serves as a powerful mirror for self-examination. Do we exhibit the characteristics of the wise person, embracing correction as a gift that leads to love and growth, or do we, even subtly, lean towards the defensiveness of the scorner? True wisdom is demonstrated not only in what we say but also in how we respond when truth is spoken to us, fostering a spirit of humility and a lifelong commitment to learning and spiritual maturity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate greater discernment in my interactions, particularly when considering offering advice or correction to others?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be exhibiting characteristics of a "scorner," resisting constructive feedback or truth from others?**
* **What steps can I take to become more like the "wise man," actively seeking and lovingly receiving correction for my own growth?**
* **How does this proverb influence my approach to difficult conversations, both as a speaker and a listener?**

### FAQ
**What defines a "scorner" in the context of Proverbs?**

Answer: In Proverbs, a "scorner" (Hebrew: `lûwts`) is more than just someone who disagrees or is stubborn. A scorner is characterized by deep-seated arrogance, pride, and an active disdain for wisdom, instruction, and even God's ways. They mock, ridicule, and despise correction, viewing it as an attack on their self-sufficiency rather than an opportunity for growth. Their heart is closed to truth, making them impervious to genuine instruction. The book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the scorner with the wise, highlighting their destructive path ([Proverbs 21:24](/proverbs/21-24 "Proverbs 21:24 - The Proud Scorner")).

**Why does the proverb advise against reproving a scorner?**

Answer: The proverb advises against reproving a scorner for two primary reasons: futility and self-preservation. Firstly, it is futile because a scorner's pride renders them unreceptive to correction; they will not learn or change. As [Proverbs 15:12](/proverbs/15-12 "Proverbs 15:12 - The Scorner Hates Reproof") states, "A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him." Secondly, it is for self-preservation, as reproving a scorner will likely provoke hatred and animosity ("lest he hate thee"). This warning protects the wise individual from unnecessary conflict, emotional harm, and wasted effort when dealing with those who are determined to remain in their folly.

**What does it mean to be "wise" in this proverb, and why does a wise person love rebuke?**

Answer: To be "wise" (Hebrew: `châkâm`) in this proverb, and throughout the biblical wisdom tradition, means possessing not just intellectual knowledge but also practical discernment, moral insight, and a humble, teachable spirit. A wise person understands that true wisdom is a lifelong pursuit and that correction, when offered with good intent, is a valuable tool for growth and refinement. They love rebuke because they prioritize truth and personal development over pride. They see correction as a sign of care and an opportunity to align themselves more closely with God's wisdom, leading to increased learning and deeper understanding ([Proverbs 1:5](/proverbs/1-5 "Proverbs 1:5 - A Wise Man Will Hear")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 9:8 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine Wisdom ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ as Wisdom")). As the Word made flesh ([John 1:1-5](/john/1-1 "John 1:1-5 - The Word Became Flesh")), Christ perfectly demonstrated the discernment advocated in this proverb. He consistently offered truth, but always with profound insight into the hearts of His hearers. He withheld His most profound truths from those who were hardened and scornful, refusing to "cast your pearls before swine" ([Matthew 7:6](/matthew/7-6 "Matthew 7:6 - Do Not Cast Your Pearls Before Swine")), recognizing that such actions would only invite contempt and profanation. Conversely, He lovingly rebuked His disciples, knowing their hearts were humble and receptive, leading them to deeper understanding and love for Him ([Luke 24:25-27](/luke/24-25 "Luke 24:25-27 - Jesus Rebukes His Disciples on the Road to Emmaus")). Jesus Himself, though sinless, humbly submitted to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross, demonstrating the ultimate receptivity to divine instruction. His life perfectly illustrates that true wisdom discerns not only what to say, but to whom, and that love for truth, even when it comes as rebuke, is the hallmark of a wise and teachable spirit, ultimately leading to life in Him ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

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

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 13:18

¶ Poverty and shame [shall be to] him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

Proverbs 23:9

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

Proverbs 15:12

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

Matthew 7:6

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Proverbs 29:1

¶ He, that being often reproved hardeneth [his] neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

Proverbs 28:23

¶ He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.