Proverbs 19:25

Modern

Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

Traditional

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

Literal

Strike a mocker and a simple one acts prudently; and rebuke a discerning one—he will discern knowledge.

Latin

Pestilente flagellato stultus sapientior erit; si autem corripueris sapientem, intelliget disciplinam.

Hebrew

English

Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

A mocker cannot be helped (see study notes on Proverbs 1:22; 21:11). A leader should still punish him so the simpleminded learn a lesson.

Proverbs 21:11
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.
Proverbs 17:10
A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment deeper than a hundred lashes cut into a fool.
Revelation 3:19
Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.
Proverbs 15:5
A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.
Proverbs 9:8–10
Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
Deuteronomy 13:11
Then all Israel will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such a wicked thing among you.
Deuteronomy 21:21
Then all the men of his city will stone him to death. So you must purge the evil from among you, and all Israel will hear and be afraid.