Proverbs 21:11

The King’s Heart · Proverbs 21:1–31
Read Proverbs 21

Translations

Modern
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.
Traditional
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
Literal
By fining a mocker, a simple one is made wise; and in giving understanding to a wise one, he receives knowledge.
Latin
Mulctato pestilente, sapientior erit parvulus, et si sectetur sapientem, sumet scientiam.

Original

Hebrew
English
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

Notes

The simple-minded learn when they see a mocker punished (see Proverbs 1:22; 19:25). The wise do not need punishment threats because they already seek wisdom.

Parallels

Psalm 21:1–13

Glossary

Proverbs, Book of

Topics

Being Naive Punishment: Design of To Secure Obedience Reproof: General Scriptures Concerning Scoffing: General Scriptures Concerning Simplicity: They Who Have the Grace of Profit by the Correction of Others Wisdom: Spiritual: Unclassified Scriptures Relating to