A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

PROVERBS 14:6KJV
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Proverbs 14:6 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 14:6 mean?

Proverbs 14:6 says that someone who mocks or scoffs at wisdom will search for it but never truly find it, while someone who has understanding finds knowledge to be straightforward and accessible. The verse draws a contrast between the attitude of a “scorner” and a person who is open and discerning.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, offering practical observations about life. The verse points out that a person’s attitude shapes their ability to learn: a “scorner” is someone who rejects advice and correction, making it impossible for them to gain real wisdom, while an understanding person is open and receptive, so knowledge comes easily to them.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 14:6

  • “scorner” (לֵץ, lēts): This word refers to someone who mocks or treats wisdom with contempt. In the context of Proverbs, a לֵץ (lēts) is not just skeptical but actively resistant to learning or correction, which explains why wisdom remains out of reach for them.
  • “easy” (קַל, qal): The word used here means “light” or “not burdensome.” For the person who understands (בִּין, bîn), knowledge is not a struggle or a mystery—it is simple and clear, highlighting the difference in attitude and openness.
  • “understandeth” (בִּין, bîn): This word describes someone who discerns or perceives things clearly. It is not just about intelligence but about a willingness to see things as they are, which is why knowledge is accessible to such a person.

Why Proverbs 14:6 matters

  • Proverbs 14:6 clarifies that gaining wisdom is not just about searching or wanting it, but about the attitude with which a person approaches learning and correction.
  • The verse highlights a key theme in Proverbs: humility and openness are essential for true understanding, while pride and mockery create barriers to wisdom.
  • This proverb helps explain why some people, despite seeking knowledge, never seem to grow wiser—because their hearts are closed off by scorn or arrogance.

Where else these words appear

“scorner” Hebrew H3887 · used in 26 verses

  • Genesis 42:23 And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for he spake unto them by an interpreter.
  • Proverbs 9:7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
  • Proverbs 19:29 Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

“easy” Hebrew H7043 · used in 79 verses

  • Genesis 8:8 Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;
  • 2 Samuel 16:7 And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial:
  • Psalms 62:4 They only consult to cast him down from his excellency: they delight in lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah.

“knowledge” Hebrew H1847 · used in 91 verses

  • Genesis 2:9 And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
  • Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
  • Proverbs 24:5 A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

“wisdom” Hebrew H2451 · used in 141 verses

  • Exodus 28:3 And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.
  • Job 28:20 Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?
  • Proverbs 29:3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.