Proverbs 15:32
Proverbs 15:32 in Multiple Translations
He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
He that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul; But he that hearkeneth to reproof getteth understanding.
He who will not be controlled by training has no respect for his soul, but he who gives ear to teaching will get wisdom.
If you ignore instruction you have no self-esteem, but if you listen to correction you gain understanding.
Hee that refuseth instruction, despiseth his owne soule: but he that obeyeth correction, getteth vnderstanding.
Whoso is refusing instruction is despising his soul, And whoso is hearing reproof Is getting understanding.
He who refuses correction despises his own soul, but he who listens to reproof gets understanding.
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
He that rejecteth instruction, despiseth his own soul: but he that yieldeth to reproof possesseth understanding.
If people refuse to listen when others try to correct them, they are despising/hurting themselves; those who ◄pay attention/heed► when others warn them ◄become wiser/acquire good sense►.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 15:32
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 15:32 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
פּוֹרֵ֣עַ
מ֭וּסָר
מוֹאֵ֣ס
נַפְשׁ֑/וֹ
וְ/שׁוֹמֵ֥עַ
תּ֝וֹכַ֗חַת
ק֣וֹנֶה
לֵּֽב
פּוֹרֵ֣עַ
pâraʻ
H6544
to lead
V-Qal
מ֭וּסָר
mûwçâr
H4148
discipline
N-ms
מוֹאֵ֣ס
mâʼaç
H3988
to reject
V-Qal
נַפְשׁ֑/וֹ
nephesh
H5315
soul
N-cs | Suff
וְ/שׁוֹמֵ֥עַ
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
Conj | V-Qal
תּ֝וֹכַ֗חַת
tôwkêchâh
H8433
rebuke
N-fs
ק֣וֹנֶה
qânâh
H7069
to buy
V-Qal
לֵּֽב
lêb
H3820
heart
N-ms
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 15:32
פּוֹרֵ֣עַ
pâraʻ
H6544
"to lead"
V-Qal
To neglect or let something go is the meaning of this word, which can also imply exposing or dismissing something. In the Bible, it is used to describe turning away from God or neglecting responsibilities.
Definition: to lead, act as leader
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: avenge, avoid, bare, go back, let, (make) naked, set at nought, perish, refuse, uncover. See also: Exodus 5:4; 2 Chronicles 28:19; Proverbs 1:25.
מ֭וּסָר
mûwçâr
H4148
"discipline"
N-ms
This Hebrew term means discipline or correction, often used to describe God's guidance. In Psalm 50:17, it warns against rejecting God's discipline, while in Proverbs 1:7, it emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining wisdom. It involves learning from mistakes.
Definition: : discipline/punishment 1) discipline, chastening, correction 1a) discipline, correction 1b) chastening
Usage: Occurs in 50 OT verses. KJV: bond, chastening(-eth), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke. See also: Deuteronomy 11:2; Proverbs 15:10; Psalms 50:17.
מוֹאֵ֣ס
mâʼaç
H3988
"to reject"
V-Qal
To spurn or reject something is what this Hebrew word means. In Genesis 37:35, it is used to describe how Jacob felt when his sons told him Joseph had died.
Definition: 1) to reject, despise, refuse 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to reject, refuse 1a2) to despise 1b) (Niphal) to be rejected
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: abhor, cast away (off), contemn, despise, disdain, (become) loathe(some), melt away, refuse, reject, reprobate, [idiom] utterly, vile person. See also: Leviticus 26:15; Psalms 106:24; Psalms 15:4.
נַפְשׁ֑/וֹ
nephesh
H5315
"soul"
N-cs | Suff
The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.
Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.
וְ/שׁוֹמֵ֥עַ
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
Conj | V-Qal
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
תּ֝וֹכַ֗חַת
tôwkêchâh
H8433
"rebuke"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means argument, correction, or reproof, often referring to a verbal rebuke or chastisement. It involves reasoning or proof to make a point or correct someone.
Definition: rebuke, correction, punishment, chastisement
Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: argument, [idiom] chastened, correction, reasoning, rebuke, reproof, [idiom] be (often) reproved. See also: 2 Kings 19:3; Proverbs 12:1; Psalms 38:15.
ק֣וֹנֶה
qânâh
H7069
"to buy"
V-Qal
This verb means to buy or acquire something, and is used to describe God's redemption of His people. It emphasizes ownership and possession, as seen in the stories of God's creation and redemption.
Definition: 1) to get, acquire, create, buy, possess 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to get, acquire, obtain 1a1a) of God originating, creating, redeeming His people 1a1a1) possessor 1a1b) of Eve acquiring 1a1c) of acquiring knowledge, wisdom 1a2) to buy 1b) (Niphal) to be bought 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to possess Aramaic equivalent: qe.na (קְנָא "to buy" H7066)
Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: attain, buy(-er), teach to keep cattle, get, provoke to jealousy, possess(-or), purchase, recover, redeem, [idiom] surely, [idiom] verily. See also: Genesis 4:1; 2 Chronicles 34:11; Psalms 74:2.
לֵּֽב
lêb
H3820
"heart"
N-ms
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
Study Notes — Proverbs 15:32
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 15:32 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:32
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:32
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:32
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
- Sermons on Proverbs 15:32
Context — A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath
30The light of the eyes cheers the heart, and good news nourishes the bones.
31He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.
32He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.
33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 1:24–33 | Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, because you neglected all my counsel, and wanted none of my correction, in turn I will mock your calamity; I will sneer when terror strikes you, when your dread comes like a storm, and your destruction like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish overwhelm you. Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will earnestly seek me, but will not find me. For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. They accepted none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil.” |
| 2 | Revelation 3:19 | Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent. |
| 3 | Proverbs 1:7 | The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. |
| 4 | Jeremiah 5:3 | O LORD, do not Your eyes look for truth? You struck them, but they felt no pain. You finished them off, but they refused to accept discipline. They have made their faces harder than stone and refused to repent. |
| 5 | Isaiah 1:5 | Why do you want more beatings? Why do you keep rebelling? Your head has a massive wound, and your whole heart is afflicted. |
| 6 | Proverbs 18:15 | The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out. |
| 7 | Proverbs 8:33–36 | Listen to instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at the posts of my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains the favor of the LORD. But he who fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.” |
| 8 | Matthew 7:24–27 | Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its collapse!” |
| 9 | Proverbs 29:1 | A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery. |
| 10 | Proverbs 17:16 | Why should the fool have money in his hand with no intention of buying wisdom? |
Proverbs 15:32 Summary
[This verse is saying that if we don't listen to correction or discipline, we are essentially showing that we don't respect ourselves. On the other hand, if we are willing to listen and learn, we will gain understanding and wisdom. This is similar to what is said in Proverbs 12:1, which emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining knowledge. By being open to correction, we can grow and become wiser, just like the wise men and women described in Proverbs 1:7.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to ignore discipline in Proverbs 15:32?
Ignoring discipline in this verse means refusing to accept and learn from correction or instruction, which can lead to a lack of self-respect, as seen in the phrase 'despises himself' (Proverbs 15:32). This is in contrast to heeding correction, which is a key aspect of the fear of the Lord, as mentioned in Proverbs 15:33.
How does heeding correction lead to gaining understanding?
Heeding correction allows us to learn from our mistakes and gain wisdom, which is a key theme in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:7, Proverbs 9:10). By being open to correction, we demonstrate humility and a willingness to learn, which are essential for spiritual growth.
What is the relationship between discipline and self-respect in this verse?
The verse suggests that ignoring discipline leads to a lack of self-respect, implying that self-respect is closely tied to our ability to accept and learn from correction (Proverbs 15:32). This is reinforced by other scriptures, such as Proverbs 12:1, which emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining knowledge and wisdom.
How can I apply the principle of heeding correction in my daily life?
Applying the principle of heeding correction involves being open to feedback and instruction from others, as well as being willing to learn from our mistakes (Proverbs 15:31-32). This can be done by seeking out wise counsel, being humble, and being willing to make changes when necessary, as seen in the example of King David in Psalms 51:1-19.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I may be ignoring discipline or refusing to heed correction?
- How can I cultivate a willingness to learn from my mistakes and receive feedback from others?
- What are some ways that I can demonstrate humility and a willingness to learn in my daily interactions with others?
- How can I balance the need for self-respect with the need to be open to correction and feedback?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:32
He that refuseth instruction,.... The instruction of parents, masters, ministers, and of God himself; or "correction" (y), instruction either by the word or by the rod; he that withdraws himself from
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:32
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
Despiseth his own soul; which hereby he exposeth to the danger of utter destruction, whereby he shows his folly. Getteth understanding; whereby he saveth his soul. Heb. possesseth an heart, which the Hebrews make the seat of wisdom.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
Proverbs 15:32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.Ver. 32. He that refuseth instruction, despiseth his own soul.] Is a sinner against his own soul, as Korah and his complices were, and sets as light by it as if it were not worth looking after. Oh! is it nothing to lose an immortal soul, to purchase an ever-living death? Wilt thou destroy that for which Christ died? What shall a man give in exchange for his soul? There is no great matter in the earth but man, nothing great in man but his soul, said Faverinus. "Whose image and superscription is it" but God’ s? "Give," therefore, "unto God the things that are God’ s," by delivering it up to his discipline. But he that heareth reproof, getteth understanding.] Heb., Possesseth his heart. This is like that sentence of our blessed Saviour, "In your patience possess ye your souls." They have need of patience that must hear reproof; for man is a cross creature, and likes not to be controlled or contraried.
"But suffer," saith that great apostle, "the words of exhortation"; suffer them in God’ s name, sharp though they be, and set on with some more than ordinary earnestness. Better it is that the vine should bleed than die. Sinite virgam corripientem, ne sentitatis malleum conterentem. Certes, "when the Lord shall have done to you according to all the good that he hath spoken concerning you, and hath brought you to his kingdom, this shall be no grief unto you or offence of heart," as he said in a like case, that you have hearkened to instruction, and been bettered by reproof.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
Verse 32. Despiseth his own soul] That is constructively; for if the instruction lead to the preservation of life and soul, he that neglects or despises it throws all as much in the way of danger as if he actually hated himself.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:32
32. understanding] Lit. heart. Comp. void of wisdom (Lit. heart), Proverbs 15:21, above, and Proverbs 2:2, note.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:32
32. Despiseth his own soul — Or, his life, or himself; meaning, acts as though he did, and does so in effect. Proverbs 8:36. Getteth understanding — Hebrew, possesseth a heart; that is, intellect.
Sermons on Proverbs 15:32
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Indian Orientation for Foreigners (1971) by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of lack of funds in the work in India. He acknowledges that money is scarce and pleads for more humanity in providing financial supp |
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The Right Reaction to Correction by Derek Prince | Derek Prince emphasizes the importance of how individuals react to correction and reproof, highlighting that one's response reveals their character. Those who respond with anger an |
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Our Attitude to Corrections by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of humbly accepting correction, highlighting how God uses leaders to break our strength and pride through correction. He contrasts the response |
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Anyone Who Does Not Come to Table Before the Verse by St. Benedict of Nursia | St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of discipline and order during communal meals, instructing that those who do not come to the table on time for the verse and oratio |
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At the Hour for the Divine Office by St. Benedict of Nursia | St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of promptly and reverently attending the Divine Office, instructing that nothing should take precedence over this sacred work. He o |
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A Cry Against the Wicked Youth of America by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher talks about a man, a Hebrew, who is running through the streets proclaiming that there are only 40 days left before everyone will die because of their |
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The Fear of the Lord by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker discusses three important points. First, God's Spirit is searching for individuals with a heart that is fully committed to Him. Second, when God finds s |