Proverbs 15:12 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 15:12 mean?

Proverbs 15:12 says that a person who mocks or scorns others does not appreciate being corrected and will avoid those who are wise enough to offer helpful advice. This verse highlights how some people actively resist learning or changing, especially when it comes from those who could truly help them.

In the book of Proverbs, these sayings are collected as practical wisdom for daily life, often presented as advice from a wise teacher to a student or child. Here, the focus is on the attitude of a "scorner"—someone who rejects correction and refuses to seek out wisdom. The verse points out that this kind of person not only dislikes being corrected but also deliberately stays away from people who could teach them something valuable.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 15:12

• "scorner" (לֵץ, lēts): This word means someone who mocks, ridicules, or treats others with contempt. In Proverbs, a לֵץ is often shown as closed-minded and unwilling to listen.
• "loveth" (אָהַב, ’āhav): Here, this word means "to love" or "to have affection for." The verse uses it to show that the scorner has no affection or appreciation for those who correct him.
• "reproveth" (יָכַח, yākhakh): This word means "to correct," "to rebuke," or "to show someone their fault." It emphasizes not just criticism, but an attempt to help someone improve.
• "go" (הָלַךְ, hālak): This word means "to go" or "to approach." The verse uses it to show that the scorner will not even make the effort to seek out wise people.
• "wise" (חָכָם, ḥākām): This word means "wise" or "skillful." In Proverbs, a חָכָם is someone who lives with understanding and makes good choices.

Why Proverbs 15:12 matters

• Proverbs 15:12 helps clear up the idea that everyone wants advice or correction; it shows that some people actively avoid it, especially if it challenges their pride or habits.
• The verse highlights a key theme in Proverbs: the difference between those who are open to wisdom and those who shut it out, which shapes the rest of their lives.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the practical consequences of attitude—those who reject correction cut themselves off from the very wisdom that could help them.