KJV ORIGINAL
He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
A person who is corrected many times but stubbornly refuses to listen will suddenly face destruction that cannot be undone.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse warns that someone who repeatedly ignores correction and remains stubborn will eventually face sudden, irreversible consequences.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from the collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to King Solomon, written around 950-700 BC. The imagery of 'hardening the neck' comes from the practice of yoking oxen - a stubborn animal would stiffen its neck against the yoke rather than submit to direction. In ancient Israel, accepting correction and wisdom was seen as essential for a well-ordered life and society.
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