Proverbs 1:22
Proverbs 1:22 in Multiple Translations
“How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge?
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And scoffers delight them in scoffing, And fools hate knowledge?
How long, you simple ones, will foolish things be dear to you? and pride a delight to the haters of authority? how long will the foolish go on hating knowledge?
“How long will you stupid people love stupidity? How long will scornful people enjoy their mocking? How long will fools hate knowledge?
O ye foolish, howe long will ye loue foolishnes? and the scornefull take their pleasure in scorning, and the fooles hate knowledge?
'Till when, ye simple, do ye love simplicity? And have scorners their scorning desired? And do fools hate knowledge?
“How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? How long will mockers delight themselves in mockery, and fools hate knowledge?
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?
O children, how long will you love childishness, and fools covet those things which are hurtful to themselves, and the unwise hate knowledge?
Wisdom says, “How long will you stupid people continue to enjoy doing foolish things [RHQ]? How long will you people who ridicule God enjoy doing that [RHQ]? How long will you foolish people refuse to know what things are right [RHQ]?
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 1:22
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 1:22 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
עַד
מָתַ֣י
פְּתָיִם֮
תְּֽאֵהֲב֫וּ
פֶ֥תִי
וְ/לֵצִ֗ים
לָ֭צוֹן
חָמְד֣וּ
לָ/הֶ֑ם
וּ֝/כְסִילִ֗ים
יִשְׂנְאוּ
דָֽעַת
עַד
ʻad
H5704
till
Prep
מָתַ֣י
mâthay
H4970
how
Part
פְּתָיִם֮
pᵉthîy
H6612
simple
N-mp
תְּֽאֵהֲב֫וּ
ʼâhab
H157
to love
V-Qal-Imperf-2mp
פֶ֥תִי
pᵉthîy
H6612
simple
N-ms
וְ/לֵצִ֗ים
lûwts
H3887
to mock
Conj | Adj
לָ֭צוֹן
lâtsôwn
H3944
scorning
N-ms
חָמְד֣וּ
châmad
H2530
to desire
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
לָ/הֶ֑ם
Prep | Suff
וּ֝/כְסִילִ֗ים
kᵉçîyl
H3684
fool
Conj | Adj
יִשְׂנְאוּ
sânêʼ
H8130
to hate
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
דָֽעַת
daʻath
H1847
knowledge
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 1:22
עַד
ʻad
H5704
"till"
Prep
This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.
Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)
Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.
מָתַ֣י
mâthay
H4970
"how"
Part
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'when' or 'how long', often used to ask about time or duration, like in Genesis when asking how long a task will take.
Definition: 1) when? 1a) with prep 1a1) against when?, until when?, how long?, after how long?
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: long, when. See also: Genesis 30:30; Psalms 101:2; Psalms 6:4.
פְּתָיִם֮
pᵉthîy
H6612
"simple"
N-mp
This Hebrew word means being simple or naive, like someone who is easily influenced. It appears in Proverbs 1:4, where Solomon advises against being foolish. In the Bible, it often refers to someone lacking wisdom.
Definition: adj simple, foolish, open-minded
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: foolish, simple(-icity, one). See also: Psalms 19:8; Proverbs 9:6; Psalms 116:6.
תְּֽאֵהֲב֫וּ
ʼâhab
H157
"to love"
V-Qal-Imperf-2mp
To love means to have affection for someone or something, including family, romance, or God. It can also describe being a friend or having appetite for things like food or wisdom.
Definition: : lover 1) to love 1a) (Qal) 1a1) human love for another, includes family, and sexual 1a2) human appetite for objects such as food, drink, sleep, wisdom 1a3) human love for or to God 1a4) act of being a friend 1a4a) lover (participle) 1a4b) friend (participle) 1a5) God's love toward man 1a5a) to individual men 1a5b) to people Israel 1a5c) to righteousness 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) lovely (participle) 1b2) loveable (participle) 1c) (Piel) 1c1) friends 1c2) lovers (fig. of adulterers) 2) to like Also means: a.hav (אָהֵב ": friend" H0157H)
Usage: Occurs in 195 OT verses. KJV: (be-) love(-d, -ly, -r), like, friend. See also: Genesis 22:2; Psalms 116:1; Psalms 4:3.
פֶ֥תִי
pᵉthîy
H6612
"simple"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means being simple or naive, like someone who is easily influenced. It appears in Proverbs 1:4, where Solomon advises against being foolish. In the Bible, it often refers to someone lacking wisdom.
Definition: adj simple, foolish, open-minded
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: foolish, simple(-icity, one). See also: Psalms 19:8; Proverbs 9:6; Psalms 116:6.
וְ/לֵצִ֗ים
lûwts
H3887
"to mock"
Conj | Adj
This word means to mock or scorn someone, often by making fun of them or talking down to them. It can also refer to interpreting languages or acting as an ambassador. In some cases, it describes a person who is arrogant or boastful.
Definition: 1) to scorn, make mouths at, talk arrogantly 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to boast 1a2) to scorn 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to mock, deride 1b2) to interpret (language) 1b2a) interpreter (participle) 1b2b) ambassador (fig.) 1c) (Hithpalpel) to be inflated, scoff, act as a scorner, show oneself a mocker Also means: la.tsats (לָצַץ "to scorn" H3945)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker, scorn(-er, -ful), teacher. See also: Genesis 42:23; Proverbs 14:9; Psalms 1:1.
לָ֭צוֹן
lâtsôwn
H3944
"scorning"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means to scorn or mock someone, showing contempt or disrespect. It is used in the Bible to describe people who ridicule or belittle others, like the scornful behavior in Proverbs 21:24. God warns against scornful behavior.
Definition: scorning, bragging
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: scornful(-ning). See also: Proverbs 1:22; Proverbs 29:8; Isaiah 28:14.
חָמְד֣וּ
châmad
H2530
"to desire"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to take great pleasure in something or someone, like a precious treasure. It's used to describe the beauty of God's creation and the joy of being in a loving relationship. In the Bible, it appears in Genesis and Psalms to express delight and desire.
Definition: v 1) to desire, covet, take pleasure in, delight in 1a) (Qal) to desire 1b) (Niphal) to be desirable 1c) (Piel) to delight greatly, desire greatly
Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: beauty, greatly beloved, covet, delectable thing, ([idiom] great) delight, desire, goodly, lust, (be) pleasant (thing), precious (thing). See also: Genesis 2:9; Proverbs 6:25; Psalms 19:11.
לָ/הֶ֑ם
""
Prep | Suff
וּ֝/כְסִילִ֗ים
kᵉçîyl
H3684
"fool"
Conj | Adj
This Hebrew word describes a fool or someone who is stupid and silly. It is often used to describe people who reject God's wisdom. The Bible uses this word to warn against foolish behavior.
Definition: fool, stupid fellow, dullard, simpleton, arrogant one
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: fool(-ish). See also: Psalms 49:11; Proverbs 19:13; Psalms 92:7.
יִשְׂנְאוּ
sânêʼ
H8130
"to hate"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
To hate means to feel intense dislike or hostility, as seen in the actions of enemies or foes in the Bible. It can also describe God's hatred of sin.
Definition: 1) to hate, be hateful 1a) (Qal) to hate 1a1) of man 1a2) of God 1a3) hater, one hating, enemy (participle) (subst) 1b) (Niphal) to be hated 1c) (Piel) hater (participle) 1c1) of persons, nations, God, wisdom Aramaic equivalent: se.ne (שְׂנָא "to hate" H8131)
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: enemy, foe, (be) hate(-ful, -r), odious, [idiom] utterly. See also: Genesis 24:60; Psalms 50:17; Psalms 5:6.
דָֽעַת
daʻath
H1847
"knowledge"
N-fs
In the Bible, daath means knowledge or understanding, like when Solomon asked God for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9. It involves skill and perception, and is often linked to wisdom. This concept appears in the book of Proverbs.
Definition: 1) knowledge 1a) knowledge, perception, skill 1b) discernment, understanding, wisdom
Usage: Occurs in 91 OT verses. KJV: cunning, (ig-) norantly, know(-ledge), (un-) awares (wittingly). See also: Genesis 2:9; Proverbs 14:7; Psalms 19:3.
Study Notes — Proverbs 1:22
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 1:22 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 1:22
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 1:22
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 1:22
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 1:22
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
- Sermons on Proverbs 1:22
Context — Wisdom Calls Aloud
20Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square;
21in the main concourse she cries aloud, at the city gates she makes her speech:
22“How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge?
23If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you. 24Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 1:29 | For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. |
| 2 | Psalms 1:1 | Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. |
| 3 | Proverbs 5:12 | and you will say, “How I hated discipline, and my heart despised reproof! |
| 4 | Matthew 9:13 | But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners. ” |
| 5 | 2 Peter 3:3 | Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. |
| 6 | John 3:20 | Everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come into the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. |
| 7 | Matthew 11:29–30 | Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” |
| 8 | Revelation 22:17 | The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely. |
| 9 | Luke 19:42 | and said, “If only you had known on this day what would bring you peace! But now it is hidden from your eyes. |
| 10 | Proverbs 19:29 | Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools. |
Proverbs 1:22 Summary
This verse is asking how long people will continue to love their foolish ways and reject wisdom. It's like Wisdom is saying, 'Come on, don't you want to be smart and make good choices?' (as seen in Proverbs 9:10). The problem is, some people actually enjoy making fun of others and being foolish, which is very sad. We should want to learn and grow in wisdom, just like it says in Proverbs 10:8, and not be like the fools who hate knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be 'simple' in Proverbs 1:22?
To be simple in this context means to be naive or lacking in wisdom, often leading to foolish decisions, as seen in Proverbs 9:4-6 where wisdom is calling out to the simple to come and learn.
Why do scoffers delight in their scorn according to this verse?
Scoffers delight in their scorn because they have hardened their hearts against wisdom and knowledge, similar to what is described in Romans 1:28-32 where people suppress the truth and become futile in their thinking.
What is the relationship between hating knowledge and being a fool?
Hating knowledge is a characteristic of a fool, as seen in Proverbs 1:22, because it shows a rejection of wisdom and understanding, which is also emphasized in Proverbs 10:8 where it says the wise in heart will receive commandments.
How does this verse relate to the overall message of Proverbs?
This verse fits into the overall message of Proverbs, which is to impart wisdom and warn against the dangers of foolishness, as stated in Proverbs 1:1-7 where the purpose of the book is to give wisdom and instruction.
Reflection Questions
- What are some 'simple ways' in my life that I need to let go of to follow God's wisdom?
- In what ways do I see scoffers delighting in scorn around me, and how can I respond with wisdom and love?
- What are some areas where I hate knowledge or resist learning, and how can I begin to cultivate a love for wisdom in those areas?
- How can I apply the message of this verse to my relationships, especially with those who may be scoffers or fools?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 1:22
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity?.... Simple foolish things, agreeably to their character, being weak simple men, men of weak capacities and shallow understandings; and such were the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 1:22
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity?
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
Ye simple ones; ye ignorant, and easy, and credulous persons, who are so soon cheated by the world and the devil, and do not understand your own interest. Love simplicity; being unwilling to part with it, or to be made wiser. Scorners; that scoff at all religion, and contemn the word and faithful ministers of God. Fools; wilful and wicked fools, as 26:4.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
Proverbs 1:22 How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?Ver. 22. How long, ye simple ones.] The fatuelli that are easily persuaded into a fool’ s paradise. These are the best sort of bad men; the apostle calls them Aêáêïé. Optimi putantur Pontifices (saith Papirius Massonius, a Popish writer) si vel leniter mali sint; vel minus boni quam coeteri mortales esse solent. Those are thought to be very good popes that are not stark naught, or that have any good at all in them. These simplicians are much better than scorners that delight in their scorning, but far beyond those fools that hate knowledge. See a like gradation in Psalms 1:1, Peccata non sunt paria; Nemo repente fit turpissimus. All sins are not alike sinful, and wicked men grow worse and worse. In Vita Pauli, iii.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
(22) How long . . .—Three classes of persons are here addressed: (1) simple ones, open to good influences, but also to evil (Proverbs 1:4); (2) scorners (lçtsîm), men who despised what was holy, priding themselves on their cleverness in so doing (Proverbs 14:6), who avoided the wise, and held themselves above their advice (Proverbs 15:12), proud, arrogant men (Proverbs 21:24). The name first appears at the time of Solomon, when the prosperity of the nation was favourable to the growth of religious indifference and scepticism. Isaiah had to deal with them in his day, too (Isaiah 28:14). (3) Fools (khesîlîm), dull, stupid persons, stolidly confident in their own wisdom.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
Verse 22. Ye simple ones] פתים pethayim, ye who have been seduced and deceived. See on Proverbs 1:4.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 1:22
22. simple] unwary, see Proverbs 1:4 above, note. love simplicity] when you stand in need of that subtilty, which wisdom offers you (Proverbs 1:4). When war is at the gates, you are not safe without armour. “Parvuli, diligitis infantiam,” Vulg. scorners] The word is, with few exceptions, peculiar to this Book, in which “ ‘the scorners’ appear as a class of defiant and cynical freethinkers in contrast and antagonism to ‘the wise.’ The root-principle of their character is a spirit of proud self-sufficiency, a contemptuous disregard for God and man (Proverbs 21:24). It is impossible to reform them, for they hate reproof and will not seek instruction (Proverbs 13:1, Proverbs 15:12). If they seek for wisdom they will not find it (Proverbs 14:6). It is folly to argue with them (Proverbs 9:7-8). They are generally detested (Proverbs 24:9), and in the interests of peace must be banished from society (Proverbs 22:10). Divine judgements are in store for them, and their fate is a warning to the simple (Proverbs 3:34, Proverbs 19:25; Proverbs 19:29, Proverbs 21:11).” Kirkpatrick on Psalms 1:1, in this Series. fools] The Heb. word here used for “fool” signifies, heavy, dull, gross. See Proverbs 17:21, note. simple, scorners, fools] The enumeration covers the field: the simple, from whom recruits are too easily drawn to the army of evil; scorners, the proud leaders of the host; fools, the rank and file of the host.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 1:22
Compare the Psalms 1:1 note. (1) The “simple,” literally, “open,” i. e.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 1:22
22. There is a gradation here, as in Psalms 1:1. Simple ones — See Proverbs 1:2. Scorners — Or, scoffers at that which is good.
Sermons on Proverbs 1:22
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dedication According to Renewed Knowledge by Devern Fromke | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the past year as a time of both blessings and challenges in their walk with God. They express a belief that God is doing something significa |
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Led by the Spirit of God - Part 5 by Milton Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of turning to discipline and reproof. He highlights the need for believers to allow the Spirit of God to control their lives |
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(Proverbs) ch.8:17 - 10:12 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence in both the business world and in spiritual life. He references the biblical story of Adam being to |
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Four Types of Leprosy by Andy Brink | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the temporary nature of our physical bodies and the certainty of standing before God to give an account of our lives. He urges listeners to |
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A Class of Sinners Excluded From Mercy. by Edward Payson | Edward Payson preaches about the warning in Isaiah 27:11, emphasizing the error of assuming God's mercy without repentance, highlighting the consequences of neglecting spiritual un |
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The Ruler of the Waves by J.C. Ryle | J.C. Ryle emphasizes the dual nature of Christ as both fully God and fully man, illustrating how His presence does not exempt believers from earthly troubles, as seen in the discip |
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Clement's Zeal by Clement of Rome | Clement of Rome passionately addresses the crowd, rebuking them for their rejection of God's counsel and truth, despite it being clearly presented to them through heralds. He lamen |