When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
When a mocker is punished, even simple people learn wisdom from watching. And when a wise person is taught, they gladly accept the knowledge.
This verse teaches that people can learn wisdom in two ways: by watching what happens to those who mock and reject good advice, and by being open to instruction like wise people are.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from King Solomon's collection of wisdom sayings, written around 970-930 BC. In ancient Israel, public punishment of wrongdoers served as both justice and education for the community. The contrast between the 'scorner' (one who mocks wisdom and authority) and the 'wise' reflects the Hebrew understanding that wisdom comes through different paths for different people.
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