Proverbs 19:25
Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.
In context
22 What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar. 23 The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble. 24 A sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth!
25 Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge. 26 Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace. 27 Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. 28 A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 19:25 in the KJV
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: And reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 19:25 in the ESV
Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.