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Proverbs 19:29

Proverbs 19:29 in Multiple Translations

Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

Judgments are prepared for scoffers, And stripes for the back of fools.

Rods are being made ready for the man of pride, and blows for the back of the foolish.

Punishment is ready for those who mock; flogging is ready for the backs of the stupid.

But iudgements are prepared for the scorners, and stripes for the backe of the fooles.

Judgments have been prepared for scorners, And stripes for the back of fools!

Penalties are prepared for scoffers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

Judgments are prepared for scorners: and striking hammers for the bodies of fools.

God is ready to punish those who make fun of him/religion; those who do foolish things deserve to be flogged/whipped.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 19:29

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 19:29 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB נָכ֣וֹנוּ לַ/לֵּצִ֣ים שְׁפָטִ֑ים וּ֝/מַהֲלֻמ֗וֹת לְ/גֵ֣ו כְּסִילִֽים
נָכ֣וֹנוּ kûwn H3559 to establish V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
לַ/לֵּצִ֣ים lûwts H3887 to mock Prep | Adj
שְׁפָטִ֑ים shepheṭ H8201 judgment N-mp
וּ֝/מַהֲלֻמ֗וֹת mahălummâh H4112 blow Conj | N-fp
לְ/גֵ֣ו gêv H1460 back Prep | N-ms
כְּסִילִֽים kᵉçîyl H3684 fool Adj
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 19:29

נָכ֣וֹנוּ kûwn H3559 "to establish" V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
This verb means to set something up or establish it, like setting up a tent or appointing someone to a position, as seen in Isaiah 7:14.
Definition: : prepare/direct 1) to be firm, be stable, be established 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be set up, be established, be fixed 1a1a) to be firmly established 1a1b) to be established, be stable, be secure, be enduring 1a1c) to be fixed, be securely determined 1a2) to be directed aright, be fixed aright, be steadfast (moral sense) 1a3) to prepare, be ready 1a4) to be prepared, be arranged, be settled 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to establish, set up, accomplish, do, make firm 1b2) to fix, make ready, prepare, provide, provide for, furnish 1b3) to direct toward (moral sense) 1b4) to arrange, order 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be established, be fastened 1c2) to be prepared, be ready 1d) (Polel) 1d1) to set up, establish 1d2) to constitute, make 1d3) to fix 1d4) to direct 1e) (Pulal) to be established, be prepared 1f) (Hithpolel) to be established, be restored
Usage: Occurs in 211 OT verses. KJV: certain(-ty), confirm, direct, faithfulness, fashion, fasten, firm, be fitted, be fixed, frame, be meet, ordain, order, perfect, (make) preparation, prepare (self), provide, make provision, (be, make) ready, right, set (aright, fast, forth), be stable, (e-) stablish, stand, tarry, [idiom] very deed. See also: Genesis 41:32; Job 18:12; Psalms 5:10.
לַ/לֵּצִ֣ים lûwts H3887 "to mock" Prep | 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.
שְׁפָטִ֑ים shepheṭ H8201 "judgment" N-mp
This word refers to a sentence or act of judgment, often used to describe God's decisions or human punishments. It appears in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah, highlighting the importance of justice. Judgment is a key theme in the Bible.
Definition: judgment, act of judgment
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: judgment. See also: Exodus 6:6; Ezekiel 11:9; Proverbs 19:29.
וּ֝/מַהֲלֻמ֗וֹת mahălummâh H4112 "blow" Conj | N-fp
This word refers to a physical blow or strike, like a hit or a beating, and is used in Exodus 21:25 to describe punishment for injuries.
Definition: strokes, blows
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: stripe, stroke. See also: Proverbs 18:6; Proverbs 19:29.
לְ/גֵ֣ו gêv H1460 "back" Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'midst' or 'middle' is used to describe a central location, similar to the Aramaic word 'gav'.
Definition: the back, back
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] among, back, body. See also: Job 30:5; Proverbs 26:3; Proverbs 10:13.
כְּסִילִֽים kᵉçîyl H3684 "fool" 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.

Study Notes — Proverbs 19:29

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context — The Man of Integrity

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!
2 Proverbs 10:13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment.
3 Proverbs 9:12 If you are wise, you are wise to your own advantage; but if you scoff, you alone will bear the consequences.
4 Acts 13:40–41 Watch out, then, that what was spoken by the prophets does not happen to you: ‘Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish! For I am doing a work in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.’ ”
5 Proverbs 17:10 A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment deeper than a hundred lashes cut into a fool.
6 2 Peter 3:3–7 Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. “Where is the promise of His coming?” they will ask. “Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.” But they deliberately overlook the fact that long ago by God’s word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water, through which the world of that time perished in the flood. And by that same word, the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men.
7 Hebrews 12:6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.”
8 Proverbs 3:34 He mocks the mockers, but gives grace to the humble.
9 Isaiah 28:22 So now, do not mock, or your shackles will become heavier. Indeed, I have heard from the Lord GOD of Hosts a decree of destruction against the whole land.
10 Proverbs 18:6 A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating.

Proverbs 19:29 Summary

This verse is warning us that if we choose to mock or ridicule others, or if we act foolishly, there will be consequences. These consequences may not be physical, but they can still be very real, such as damaged relationships or a lost reputation. As it says in Galatians 6:7-8, we will reap what we sow, and if we sow mockery or foolishness, we will reap trouble and heartache. By seeking wisdom and humility, we can avoid these consequences and live a life that is pleasing to God, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:1-2.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a mocker in the context of Proverbs 19:29?

A mocker is someone who ridicules or scoffs at others, often in a way that is hurtful or disrespectful, as seen in Proverbs 1:22, where the mocker is described as one who delights in mocking the wise.

Are the judgments and beatings in this verse literal or figurative?

While the verse may be using physical punishment as an illustration, the judgments and beatings are likely figurative, representing the consequences of foolish behavior, as warned in Psalm 1:1, where the blessed man avoids the path of the scornful.

How can we avoid being considered mockers or fools in God's eyes?

We can avoid being considered mockers or fools by humbly seeking wisdom and instruction, as encouraged in Proverbs 9:10, and by fearing the Lord, as stated in Proverbs 1:7, which is the beginning of knowledge.

Is this verse saying that God is cruel or vindictive?

No, this verse is not saying that God is cruel or vindictive, but rather that He is just and righteous, as seen in Genesis 18:25, where God is described as the Judge of all the earth, and in Romans 11:22, where we are reminded of the kindness and severity of God.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways do I mock or ridicule others, and how can I change my behavior to be more respectful and kind?
  2. What are some areas in my life where I may be acting foolishly, and how can I seek wisdom and guidance from God's Word?
  3. How can I balance humility and confidence in my interactions with others, avoiding the temptation to mock or belittle those who may be weaker or less knowledgeable?
  4. What are some consequences I have experienced or observed in the lives of others who have chosen to mock or act foolishly, and how can I learn from these examples?

Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 19:29

Judgments are prepared for scorners,.... Either by the civil magistrate, or by the Lord, and indeed by both; and if they miss the one, they will certainly meet the other; though they mock at present

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 19:29

Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools. Judgments are prepared for scorners - even as they 'scorned judgment' (Proverbs 19:28.) Righteous retribution in kind.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 19:29

Prepared, either by men, or at least by God; although they: be deferred for a thee, yet they are treasured up for them, and shall infallibly be inflicted upon them.

Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 19:29

Proverbs 19:29 Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.Ver. 29. Judgments are prepared for scorners.] For these scorners (that promise themselves impunity) are judgments, not one, but many, not appointed only, but prepared long since, and now ready to be executed.

Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 19:29

(29) Judgments are prepared for scorners.—(Comp. Proverbs 19:25.) Fools.—See above on Proverbs 1:22.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 19:29

Verse 29. Stripes for the back of fools.] Profane and wicked men expose themselves to the punishments denounced against such by just laws. Avoid, therefore, both their company and their end.

Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 19:29

29. Judgments are prepared for scorners — This may relate to the preceding proverb, and threaten the punishment due to the crimes of those who have no regard for truth and justice. Compare Proverbs 14:3; Proverbs 26:3.

Sermons on Proverbs 19:29

SermonDescription
Bob Hoekstra Parents and Children by Bob Hoekstra This sermon focuses on the biblical principles of parenting and raising children according to God's design. It emphasizes the importance of mutual servanthood in family relationshi
Thomas Brooks His School of Instruction by Thomas Brooks Thomas Brooks emphasizes that God's discipline serves as a means of instruction, akin to a rod that reveals folly and vanity in His people. He explains that God's corrections are n
Vance Havner A Judgement Is Coming by Vance Havner In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not just having access to the light of God's truth, but also actively engaging with it. He warns against the danger of bei
Bob Phillips Blood Covenant - Part 4 by Bob Phillips In this tape of the sermon series, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a broken heart and turning to God. He assures the listeners that even if their hearts have become
Bill Gallatin Acts 13 by Bill Gallatin In this sermon, Pastor Bill Gallatin teaches from the Book of Acts chapter 13, starting with verse 1. He begins by emphasizing the importance of faithfully sharing the word of God
Bill McLeod The Worker Approved by God by Bill McLeod In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of encountering a woman who was interested in a tract about how to get to heaven. The speaker emphasizes the need for actio
Robert Govett The Twofoldness of Divine Truth by Robert Govett Robert Govett preaches about the twofoldness of truth in the Scripture, emphasizing the harmony of seemingly opposing doctrines found in the Bible. He explores the coexistence of G

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