Translations
Modern
It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
Traditional
It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.
Literal
Better to hear the rebuke of a wise one, than hearing a song of fools.
Latin
Melius est a sapiente corripi, quam stultorum adulatione decipi;
Original
Hebrew
English
It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
Notes
Praise from a fool and enjoying a fool’s laughter are temporary and worthless. Criticism from a wise person can lead to real benefits (Proverbs 17:10).
It is unwise to engage in carefree fun when wisdom calls for serious reflection on death (see also Ecclesiastes 2:12–13).
God's control over everything is serious, but it gives us hope.
Theme notes and profiles
Glossary
Topics
Reproof: Declared to Be: Better than the Praise of Fools Reproof: General Scriptures Concerning Secular Music Worldly Music