Proverbs 9:7

He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself.

Study Bible

He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself;
In the biblical context, a "mocker" is someone who ridicules or scorns wisdom and instruction. This phrase highlights the futility and potential backlash of attempting to correct someone who is not open to learning or change. The mocker is often associated with pride and arrogance, traits that make them resistant to correction. In Proverbs, mockers are contrasted with the wise, who are open to instruction and growth. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on wisdom and learning, and those who rejected it were seen as foolish. This phrase warns that engaging with such individuals can lead to personal disgrace, as the mocker may respond with hostility or ridicule, reflecting poorly on the one offering correction.

he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself.
The "wicked man" in this context refers to someone who is morally corrupt and actively engaged in evil deeds. Rebuking such a person can lead to personal defilement, as their response may be aggressive or harmful. The historical context of this proverb suggests that the wicked were often entrenched in their ways, and confronting them could result in negative consequences for the one offering the rebuke. This phrase underscores the importance of discernment in choosing when and whom to correct. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of the separation between righteousness and wickedness, as seen in passages like Psalm 1, which contrasts the way of the righteous with the path of the wicked. The warning here is that engaging with the wicked can lead to one's own moral or social contamination, emphasizing the need for wisdom in interactions with those who reject godly principles.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mocker
In the context of Proverbs, a mocker is someone who ridicules or scorns wisdom and instruction. They are often resistant to correction and are characterized by pride and arrogance.

2. Wicked Man
This refers to someone who is morally wrong or evil, often in opposition to God's ways. The wicked man is not just sinful but also actively rejects righteousness.

3. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom. His proverbs often provide practical guidance for living a life that honors God.

4. Wisdom Literature
Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Job and Ecclesiastes. These writings focus on practical and philosophical aspects of life.

5. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where wisdom was highly valued and seen as a divine gift.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Nature of a Mocker
A mocker is resistant to correction and often responds with hostility. Engaging with them requires discernment and wisdom.

The Risk of Rebuking the Wicked
Correcting a wicked person can lead to personal harm or shame. It is important to assess whether the person is open to change before offering correction.

Wisdom in Correction
Not all correction is beneficial. Wisdom involves knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, as well as understanding the character of the person being corrected.

Guarding One's Integrity
Engaging with those who reject wisdom can taint one's own reputation and integrity. It is crucial to maintain a godly character in all interactions.

Seeking God's Guidance
Prayer and seeking God's wisdom are essential when deciding whether to correct someone. God provides the discernment needed to navigate these situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we identify a mocker or a wicked person in our own lives, and what characteristics should we look for?

2. In what ways can correcting a mocker or wicked person bring shame or taint to oneself, and how can we avoid these pitfalls?

3. How does the teaching in Proverbs 9:7 align with Jesus' instructions in Matthew 7:6 about not casting pearls before swine?

4. What role does discernment play in deciding whether to correct someone, and how can we cultivate this discernment in our spiritual lives?

5. How can we apply the wisdom of Proverbs 9:7 in our daily interactions with others, especially in situations where we feel compelled to offer correction?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 7:6
This verse advises against giving what is holy to dogs or casting pearls before swine, which parallels the futility of correcting those who are unreceptive to wisdom.

Proverbs 1:22
This verse speaks about simpletons, mockers, and fools, highlighting the different attitudes towards wisdom and instruction.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
These verses emphasize the importance of Scripture for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, providing a broader context for understanding the role of correction.