He who listens to life-giving reproof
Listening to reproof is a recurring theme in Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of humility and teachability. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom literature often highlighted the value of correction as a means to personal growth and moral development. The term "life-giving" suggests that such reproof is not merely corrective but also nurturing, leading to spiritual and moral vitality. This aligns with the biblical principle that God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6). The idea of reproof being "life-giving" can also be seen as a type of Christ, who offers correction and guidance that leads to eternal life.

will dwell among the wise
Dwelling among the wise implies a community or fellowship characterized by wisdom and understanding. In biblical times, wisdom was often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), and those who sought wisdom were encouraged to associate with others who shared this pursuit. This phrase suggests that accepting correction is a pathway to joining a community of the wise, reflecting the biblical principle that iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Historically, wisdom was highly valued in Israelite culture, and being part of a wise community was seen as a blessing and a source of strength. This can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the Church, the body of Christ, where believers are called to grow together in wisdom and maturity.

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His writings often focus on the importance of wisdom and understanding.

2. The Wise
In the context of Proverbs, the wise are those who live according to God's principles, valuing instruction and correction as a means to grow in understanding and righteousness.

3. The Listener
This refers to anyone who is open to receiving correction and instruction, which is a key theme in the book of Proverbs.The Value of Reproof
Reproof is not merely criticism but a life-giving correction that leads to growth and wisdom. Embrace it as a tool for spiritual development.

Dwelling Among the Wise
Associating with wise individuals who value God's truth can lead to personal growth. Seek out communities and friendships that encourage godly wisdom.

Openness to Instruction
Cultivate a heart that is open to receiving correction. This openness is a mark of humility and a desire to grow in Christlikeness.

The Role of Humility
Humility is essential in accepting reproof. Recognize that no one is beyond the need for correction and that it is a pathway to wisdom.

The Fruit of Correction
Understand that accepting reproof leads to a deeper understanding of God's will and a more fruitful Christian life.(31) The ear that heareth the reproof of life--i.e., one which does not refuse reproof, or instruction, which leads to life. (Comp. Proverbs 6:23.) The "ear" is put for the person, as in Job 29:11.

Verse 31. - The ear that heareth (hearkeneth to) the reproof of life abideth among the wise (Proverbs 6:23). The reproof, or instruction, of life is that which teaches the true way of pleasing God, which is indeed the only life worth living. The ear, by synecdoche, is put for the person. One who attends to and profits by such admonition may be reckoned among the wise, and rejoices to be conversant with them. Wordsworth finds a more recondite sense here: the ear of the wise dwells, lodges, passes the night (Proverbs 19:23) in their heart, whereas the heart of fools is in their mouth (Proverbs 14:33). This verse is omitted in the Septuagint, though it is found in the other Greek versions and the Latin Vulgate.

Parallel Commentaries ...


He who listens to
שֹׁ֭מַעַת‪‬ (šō·ma·‘aṯ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

life-giving
חַיִּ֑ים (ḥay·yîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2416: Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life

reproof
תּוֹכַ֣חַת (tō·w·ḵa·ḥaṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8433: Chastisement, correction, refutation, proof

will dwell
תָּלִֽין׃ (tā·lîn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 3885: To stop, to stay permanently, to be obstinate

among
בְּקֶ֖רֶב (bə·qe·reḇ)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7130: The nearest part, the center

the wise.
חֲכָמִ֣ים (ḥă·ḵā·mîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 2450: Wise


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 15:31 The ear that listens to reproof lives (Prov. Pro Pr)