Proverbs 15:5
Proverbs 15:5 in Multiple Translations
A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.
A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
A fool despiseth his father’s correction; But he that regardeth reproof getteth prudence.
A foolish man puts no value on his father's training; but he who has respect for teaching has good sense.
Only a foolish son despises his father's instruction, but one who accepts correction is sensible.
A foole despiseth his fathers instruction: but he that regardeth correction, is prudent.
A fool despiseth the instruction of his father, And whoso is regarding reproof is prudent.
A fool despises his father’s correction, but he who heeds reproof shows prudence.
A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
A fool laugheth at the instruction of his father: but he that regardeth reproofs shall become prudent. In abundant justice there is the greatest strength: but the devices of the wicked shall be rooted out.
Foolish children despise their parents when their parents correct/discipline them; wise children accept it.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 15:5
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 15:5 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
אֱוִ֗יל
יִ֭נְאַץ
מוּסַ֣ר
אָבִ֑י/ו
וְ/שֹׁמֵ֖ר
תּוֹכַ֣חַת
יַעְרִֽם
אֱוִ֗יל
ʼĕvîyl
H191
fool(ish)
Adj
יִ֭נְאַץ
nâʼats
H5006
to spurn
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
מוּסַ֣ר
mûwçâr
H4148
discipline
N-ms
אָבִ֑י/ו
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
וְ/שֹׁמֵ֖ר
shâmar
H8104
to keep
Conj | V-Qal
תּוֹכַ֣חַת
tôwkêchâh
H8433
rebuke
N-fs
יַעְרִֽם
ʻâram
H6191
be shrewd
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
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 15:5
אֱוִ֗יל
ʼĕvîyl
H191
"fool(ish)"
Adj
The Hebrew word for a foolish person, someone who despises wisdom or mocks when guilty. It appears in the Bible to describe those who are quarrelsome or licentious. The KJV translates it as 'fool' or 'foolish man'.
Definition: 1) be foolish, foolish 1a) (subst) 1a1) of one who despises wisdom 1a2) of one who mocks when guilty 1a3) of one who is quarrelsome 1a4) of one who is licentious
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: fool(-ish) (man). See also: Job 5:2; Proverbs 14:9; Psalms 107:17.
יִ֭נְאַץ
nâʼats
H5006
"to spurn"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
To spurn or scorn means to show contempt or hatred, often used in the Bible to describe rejection of God or his people. This word appears in Proverbs and Psalms, warning against despising others. It can also mean to provoke or blaspheme.
Definition: 1) to spurn, contemn, despise, abhor 1a) (Qal) to spurn, contemn 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to spurn 1b2) to cause to contemn 1c) (Hiphil) to spurn 1d) (Hithpolel) to be contemned
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: abhor, (give occasion to) blaspheme, contemn, despise, flourish, [idiom] great, provoke. See also: Numbers 14:11; Proverbs 1:30; Psalms 10:3.
מוּסַ֣ר
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.
אָבִ֑י/ו
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
וְ/שֹׁמֵ֖ר
shâmar
H8104
"to keep"
Conj | V-Qal
To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.
Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from
Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.
תּוֹכַ֣חַת
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.
יַעְרִֽם
ʻâram
H6191
"be shrewd"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
To be shrewd or cunning, often with negative connotations, as seen in various Bible stories where characters use their wit for good or bad. It involves being prudent, taking crafty counsel, or being subtle in one's actions.
Definition: 1) to be subtle, be shrewd, be crafty, beware, take crafty counsel, be prudent 1a) (Qal) to be crafty, be subtle 1b) (Hiphil) to be crafty, be or become shrewd
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] very, beware, take crafty (counsel), be prudent, deal subtilly. See also: 1 Samuel 23:22; Proverbs 15:5; Psalms 83:4.
Study Notes — Proverbs 15:5
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 15:5 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:5
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:5
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:5
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
- Sermons on Proverbs 15:5
Context — A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath
3The eyes of the LORD are in every place, observing the evil and the good.
4A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.
5A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.
6The house of the righteous has great treasure, but the income of the wicked is trouble. 7The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but not so the hearts of fools.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 15:31–32 | He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. |
| 2 | Proverbs 13:1 | A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke. |
| 3 | Proverbs 13:18 | Poverty and shame come to him who ignores discipline, but whoever heeds correction is honored. |
| 4 | Proverbs 19:20 | Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. |
| 5 | Titus 1:13 | This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith |
| 6 | 1 Chronicles 28:9 | As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve Him wholeheartedly and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands the intent of every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 22:11–13 | Now, my son, may the LORD be with you, and may you succeed in building the house of the LORD your God, as He said you would. Above all, may the LORD give you insight and understanding when He puts you in command over Israel, so that you may keep the Law of the LORD your God. Then you will succeed, if you carefully follow the statutes and ordinances that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. |
| 8 | 1 Chronicles 28:20 | David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you before all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished. |
| 9 | Titus 2:15 | Speak these things as you encourage and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you. |
| 10 | 2 Samuel 15:1–6 | Some time later, Absalom provided for himself a chariot with horses and fifty men to run ahead of him. He would get up early and stand beside the road leading to the city gate. Whenever anyone had a grievance to bring before the king for a decision, Absalom would call out and ask, “What city are you from?” And if he replied, “Your servant is from one of the tribes of Israel,” Absalom would say, “Look, your claims are good and right, but the king has no deputy to hear you.” And he would add, “If only someone would appoint me judge in the land, then everyone with a grievance or dispute could come to me, and I would give him justice.” Also, when anyone approached to bow down to him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him, and kiss him. Absalom did this to all the Israelites who came to the king for justice. In this way he stole the hearts of the men of Israel. |
Proverbs 15:5 Summary
This verse teaches us that it's wise to listen to and learn from correction, whether it's from our parents, a mentor, or God. When we reject discipline, we're acting foolishly and missing out on opportunities to grow and learn. On the other hand, when we heed correction, we show that we're prudent and willing to learn, which is an important part of becoming wise (Proverbs 1:7, Psalm 119:66). By being open to discipline and correction, we can become more like God, who disciplines us because He loves us (Hebrews 12:7-10).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by 'father’s discipline' in this verse?
The phrase 'father’s discipline' refers to the guidance and correction provided by a father figure, which can include parents, mentors, or even God Himself, as seen in Proverbs 3:12 and Hebrews 12:7-10.
How can rejecting discipline make someone a fool?
Rejecting discipline shows a lack of wisdom and understanding, as it prevents the person from learning and growing, which is a key aspect of becoming wise, as mentioned in Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10.
What is the difference between a fool and someone who is prudent?
A fool rejects discipline and correction, while a prudent person heeds it, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow, which is a hallmark of wisdom, as seen in Psalm 119:66 and Proverbs 10:8.
How can I apply this verse to my own life?
You can apply this verse by being open to correction and discipline, whether from parents, mentors, or God, and by recognizing that it is an opportunity for growth and learning, as encouraged in Proverbs 12:1 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I may be rejecting discipline or correction, and how can I become more open to it?
- How has rejecting or accepting discipline impacted my relationships with others, and what can I learn from those experiences?
- In what ways can I demonstrate prudence and a willingness to learn, and how will that affect my relationships and decision-making?
- What are some ways I can seek out discipline and correction in a healthy and constructive way, such as through mentorship or biblical guidance?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:5
A fool despiseth his father's instruction,.... They are fools that despise any instruction that is wise, good, and profitable; and especially a father's instruction, whose love, tender affection, and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:5
A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent. A fool despiseth his father's instruction - whether through carelessness, sloth, or love of pleasure or gain.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
A fool despiseth, doth not regard nor obey, which is an evidence of contempt, his father’ s instruction; who hath both love to him, and authority over him; which greatly aggravates his folly. Reproof; the reproof of any person whatsoever, and much more of a father.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
Proverbs 15:5 A fool despiseth his father’ s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent. Ver. 5. A fool despiseth his father’ s instruction.] Heb., Entertains it with contumelious and opprobrious language; as a madman doth a potion offered him for his health. Jerome oft renders the word, "to blaspheme"; and indeed to reject good counsel, of a father especially, with scorn and reproach, is blasphemy in the second table. But he that regardeth reproof, is prudent.] Wise he is, and wiser he will be. This made David prize and pray for a reprover. And it is said of Gerson, that great and wise chancellor of Paris, that he took pleasure in nothing more, quam si ab aliquo fraterne et charitative redargueretur, than in a friendly reproof. The like is reported of Sir Anthony Cope, by Dr Harris, who preached his funeral; and of that famous man of God, Mr William Wheatly, by Mr Scudder, who writes his life. He was glad, saith he, when any of the righteous smote him, and would take it well, not from his superiors only, but from his equals, and far inferiors. In vita Gers.
Samuel’ s Fun. Epist. Mr Wheatly’ s Archetyp., Pref.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
(5) A fool (’evîl).—See above, on Proverbs 1:7.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:5
5. is prudent] Rather, becometh prudent, by “regarding reproof.”
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:5
5. A fool despiseth… instruction — The sense is: He that rejects the restraint placed upon him by his father, who loves him, is a fool. But he that regardeth reproof is prudent — Acts discreetly. Comp. Proverbs 10:1.
Sermons on Proverbs 15:5
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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God's Truth: Authority and Discipline by Russell Kelfer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's word and the need for consistency in following through with what is said. He shares a personal anecdote about his so |
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Sowing and Reaping by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that God is always watching over us. He shares a story of a father and son who plan to cut a log on someone el |
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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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Teaching by John Follette | John Follette emphasizes the importance of training children in the way they should go, highlighting the need to go beyond just telling them what to do. He explains the process of |
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Not Only Is the Boon of Obedience by St. Benedict of Nursia | St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of obedience within the monastery, instructing the brethren to obey the Abbot and each other as a path to God. He stresses the need |
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Unfulfilled Prophecy by Robert Anderson | Greek Word Studies for Discipline emphasizes the importance of providing instruction and guidance to children for responsible living and maturity. It involves a combination of firm |
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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 |