Question 1

What does Proverbs 15:5 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 15:5 says that a foolish person rejects or looks down on the guidance and correction given by a father, while a wise person pays attention to correction and learns from it. The verse draws a clear line between foolishness and wisdom based on how someone responds to advice and discipline. This proverb comes from the book of Proverbs, a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, meant to teach practical wisdom. The verse uses the relationship between a father and child as a picture of how people respond to instruction in general. The focus is on the attitude toward correction: scorning it marks someone as foolish, but accepting it shows understanding and good sense.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 15:5

Accepted Answer

"fool" (אֱוִיל, 'ewil): This word often describes someone who is not just lacking knowledge, but stubbornly refuses to listen or learn. In this context, it highlights a closed, dismissive attitude. "despiseth" (בָּזָה, bazah): This verb means to treat something with contempt or to consider it worthless. The verse is not just about ignoring advice, but actively looking down on it. "instruction" (מוּסָר, musar): This word refers to discipline, correction, or training, not just information. It often includes the idea of moral guidance or even rebuke. "regardeth" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word means to keep, guard, or pay careful attention to something. The wise person does not just hear correction but takes it seriously and acts on it. "reproof" (תוֹכַחַת, tokhachat): This word refers to a rebuke or correction, especially when someone is shown their fault. "prudent" (עָרוּם, arum): This word describes someone who is shrewd, sensible, or shows good judgment. The verse connects prudence with being open to correction.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 15:5 matters

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 15:5 clarifies that wisdom is not just about knowing things, but about being willing to listen and change when corrected. The verse challenges the common idea that ignoring criticism is a sign of strength; here, it is actually called foolishness. This proverb fits into a larger theme in Proverbs about the value of discipline and the dangers of prideful stubbornness, helping the reader see correction as a gift rather than an insult.

Proverbs 15:5 (KJV)