What does Proverbs 13:10 mean?
The word translated "insolence" comes from a Hebrew verb literally meaning "to boil." This suggests a kind of inward, bubbling pride that refuses to learn anything from anybody (Proverbs 1:22; 12:15; 13:1). An insolent person is a contentious, know-it-all, egotistical individual with a superior attitude. He is quick to quarrel and unwilling to agree with anyone with a different view. Such persons create a great deal of drama but accomplish little else (Titus 3:9–11).The philosophers at Mars Hill who rejected the apostle Paul's message about Jesus were insolent. They called Paul a babbler (Acts 17:18). Some of those who heard Paul preach about the resurrection made fun of him (Acts 17:32). Paul advised young Timothy to receive advice. He writes in 2 Timothy 1:13: "Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." He also offered good counsel in Romans 12:16: "Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight."