Proverbs 15:5 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 15:5 mean?

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.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 15:5

• "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.

Why Proverbs 15:5 matters

• 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.