Proverbs 21:11 - Printer Friendly

ESV: When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.

NIV: When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge.

NASB: When the scoffer is punished, the naive becomes wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

CSB: When a mocker is punished, the inexperienced become wiser; when one teaches a wise man, he acquires knowledge.

NLT: If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded become wise; if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser.

KJV: When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

NKJV: When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

An earlier proverb noted that even simple-minded people can learn from the example of wrongdoers who are punished (Proverbs 19:25). The "scoffer" being punished here is defined by a Hebrew word meaning "mocker, inflated, scorner." These are the unteachable, arrogant ones who respond to any attempt to change their mind with ridicule and sneers (Proverbs 9:7–8; 15:12; 24:9).

Even if a person has little experience or knowledge, they can learn not to commit crimes if they are open-minded. They see the consequences and make sensible choices to avoid them. This is presented as a parallel to the wise person (Proverbs 1:7) who learns through instruction: hearing and accepting sound teaching (Proverbs 9:9; 13:14). Considering the fate of others and making better choices is, itself, an expression of wisdom.

More effective than watching others fail is studying God's Word. Paul writes to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:5, "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well." Further, he tells Timothy, "and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 3:15). The Scriptures, Paul testifies, are "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Proverbs 21:1–16 continues Solomon's wise observations (Proverbs 10:1) by acknowledging the Lord's control of kings. He also mentions what the Lord despises: pride, love of money, violence, the conduct of the wicked, the withholding of charity, bribery, and apostasy. On the other hand, he commends righteousness and justice, pure conduct, wise acceptance of instruction, and charity.

This chapter begins and ends with a declaration of God's sovereignty. He alone judges the heart; the Lord considers intentions just as important as physical actions. Other comments include statements about unpleasant spouses, proper perspectives on wealth, work ethic, and the essential nature of godly wisdom. Human wisdom is no match for the sovereign Lord, who alone is ultimately responsible for victory in battle.

This is part of the second major section of the book (Proverbs 10—22) featuring nearly four hundred statements. Most of these are two-line comments presenting common sense and general wisdom. The vague theme of chapter 21 is God's control. Man may believe he is in control of his circumstances, but God superintends everything. The chapter begins and ends by assuring the readers that God holds ultimate sway over all things.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.