He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.
Someone who corrects a person will eventually be appreciated more than someone who just says nice things to make them feel good.
This verse is saying that honest correction, even when it's uncomfortable, is more valuable and will be more appreciated in the long run than empty flattery.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wisdom sayings, written around 950 BC for training young people in wise living. In ancient Israel's culture, receiving correction from elders or wise counselors was seen as a sign of love and investment in someone's character. The contrast between rebuke and flattery was particularly relevant in royal courts where advisors might be tempted to tell kings only what they wanted to hear.
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