Proverbs 21:11
New International Version
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge.

New Living Translation
If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded become wise; if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser.

English Standard Version
When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.

Berean Standard Bible
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

Berean Literal Bible
By fining a mocker, a simple one is made wise; and in giving understanding to a wise one, he receives knowledge.

King James Bible
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

New King James Version
When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

New American Standard Bible
When the scoffer is punished, the naive becomes wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

NASB 1995
When the scoffer is punished, the naive becomes wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

NASB 1977
When the scoffer is punished, the naive becomes wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

Legacy Standard Bible
When the scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; And when one considers wisdom, he receives knowledge.

Amplified Bible
When the scoffer is punished, the naive [observes the lesson and] becomes wise; But when the wise and teachable person is instructed, he receives knowledge.

Berean Annotated Bible
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

Christian Standard Bible
When a mocker is punished, the inexperienced become wiser; when one teaches a wise man, he acquires knowledge.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
When a mocker is punished, the inexperienced become wiser; when one teaches a wise man, he acquires knowledge.

American Standard Version
When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; And when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

Contemporary English Version
An ignorant fool learns by seeing others punished; a sensible person learns by being instructed.

English Revised Version
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
When a mocker is punished, a gullible person becomes wise, and when a wise person is instructed, he gains knowledge.

Good News Translation
When someone who is conceited gets his punishment, even an unthinking person learns a lesson. One who is wise will learn from what he is taught.

International Standard Version
When a mocker is punished, the fool gains wisdom; but when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

NET Bible
When a scorner is punished, the naive becomes wise; when a wise person is instructed, he gains knowledge.

New Heart English Bible
When the mocker is punished, the simple gains wisdom. When the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

Webster's Bible Translation
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.

World English Bible
When the mocker is punished, the simple gains wisdom. When the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
When the scorner is punished, the simple becomes wise, "" And in giving understanding to the wise He receives knowledge.

Berean Literal Bible
By fining a mocker, a simple one is made wise; and in giving understanding to a wise one, he receives knowledge.

Young's Literal Translation
When the scorner is punished, the simple becometh wise, And in giving understanding to the wise He receiveth knowledge.

Smith's Literal Translation
In punishing him mocking, the simple shall become wise: and in instruction to the wise one he will take knowledge.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
When a pestilent man is punished, the little one will be wiser: and if he follow the wise, he will receive knowledge.

Catholic Public Domain Version
When the pestilent is punished, a little one will become wiser. And if he pursues what is wise, he will receive knowledge.

New American Bible
When scoffers are punished the naive become wise; when the wise succeed, they gain knowledge.

New Revised Standard Version
When a scoffer is punished, the simple become wiser; when the wise are instructed, they increase in knowledge.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
When a wicked man suffers harm, even the simple become wise; but a wise man receives knowledge through his own counsel.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
By the injury of the evil the child is made wise, and by his reflection the wise receives knowledge.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
When the scorner is punished, the thoughtless is made wise; And when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
When an intemperate man is punished the simple becomes wiser: and a wise man understanding will receive knowledge.

Additional Translations ...



Context
The King's Heart
10The soul of the wicked man craves evil; his neighbor finds no favor in his eyes. 11When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge. 12The Righteous One considers the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.…

Cross References
When a mocker is punished,

Proverbs 19:25
Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

Proverbs 22:10
Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease.

Isaiah 29:20
For the ruthless will vanish, the mockers will disappear, and all who look for evil will be cut down—
the simple gain wisdom;

Psalm 19:7
The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple.

Proverbs 8:5
O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools, gain understanding.

Proverbs 1:4
To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young,
and when a wise man is instructed,

Proverbs 9:9
Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.

Proverbs 1:5
let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:5
It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
he acquires knowledge.

Proverbs 18:15
The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

Proverbs 2:6
For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Daniel 1:17
To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom. And Daniel had insight into all kinds of visions and dreams.
Proverbs 9:7-9
He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself. / Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. / Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.

Proverbs 19:29
Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Proverbs 22:3
The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences.

Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.


Treasury of Scripture

When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

the scorner

Proverbs 19:25
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

Numbers 16:34
And all Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also.

Deuteronomy 13:11
And all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you.

when the wise

Proverbs 1:5
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

Proverbs 9:9
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

Proverbs 15:14
The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

Jump to Previous
Gain Gains Gets Instructed Mocker Naive Pride Punished Punishment Receives Receiveth Scoffer Scorner Simple Thoughtless Undergoes Understanding Watching Wisdom Wise
Jump to Next
Gain Gains Gets Instructed Mocker Naive Pride Punished Punishment Receives Receiveth Scoffer Scorner Simple Thoughtless Undergoes Understanding Watching Wisdom Wise
Proverbs 21
1. The king's heart in the hand of the Lord












When a mocker is punished,

When a mocker is punished publicly, others are warned against rejecting wisdom and righteousness. His judgment reveals the destructive end of contempt for God’s order.

Pro 19:25 Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware;…
Pro 22:10 Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart…
Isa 29:20 For the ruthless will vanish, the mockers will disappear…

the simple gain wisdom;

Those lacking discernment can gain wisdom by observing the consequences of rebellion. What they see teaches them to avoid the path of folly.

Psa 19:7 The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul;…
Pro 8:5 O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools,…
Pro 1:4 To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge…

and when a wise man is instructed,

When a wise person is instructed, he willingly receives correction and gains knowledge. He understands that sound teaching strengthens his judgment and leads to greater wisdom.

Pro 9:9 Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still;…
Pro 1:5 let the wise listen and gain instruction,…
Ecc 7:5 It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke…

he acquires knowledge.

Wisdom continues to grow through humble attention to truth, producing greater understanding and faithful conduct.

Pro 18:15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge…
Pro 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth…
Dan 1:17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding…

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 arrogance and pride.

2. Simple
The simple are those who are naive or inexperienced. They are not necessarily foolish but lack understanding and discernment. They are open to learning and can gain wisdom through observing the consequences of others' actions.

3. Wise Man
A wise man is someone who values and seeks knowledge and understanding. He is open to instruction and correction, which leads to further growth in wisdom.

4. Punishment
This refers to the consequences or discipline that a mocker faces due to their actions. It serves as a lesson not only for the mocker but also for others who observe it.

5. Instruction
The process of teaching or imparting knowledge. For the wise, instruction is a means to acquire deeper understanding and insight.
Teaching Points
The Role of Consequences in Learning
Observing the punishment of a mocker can serve as a powerful lesson for the simple. It underscores the importance of learning from the mistakes of others to avoid similar pitfalls.

Openness to Instruction
A wise person is characterized by their willingness to receive instruction. This openness is crucial for spiritual growth and acquiring deeper knowledge.

The Value of Discipline
Discipline, whether through direct punishment or instruction, is a tool God uses to impart wisdom and knowledge. Embracing discipline can lead to personal and spiritual development.

Influence of Example
Our actions and their consequences can serve as examples to others. Living wisely and accepting correction can positively influence those around us, especially the simple.

Growth Through Correction
Embracing correction is essential for growth. It is important to cultivate a heart that is receptive to God's guidance and the wisdom of others.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:11?

2. How does Proverbs 21:11 encourage learning from the consequences of others' actions?

3. What role does discipline play in gaining wisdom according to Proverbs 21:11?

4. How can Proverbs 21:11 guide us in correcting others within the church?

5. In what ways does Proverbs 21:11 connect with Hebrews 12:11 on discipline?

6. How can we apply Proverbs 21:11 to improve our personal spiritual growth?

7. How does Proverbs 21:11 relate to the concept of divine justice and human learning?

8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 21:11?

9. How does Proverbs 21:11 challenge modern views on punishment and correction?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 21?


(11) When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise.--See above on Proverbs 19:25.

Verse 11. - When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise. We had the same thought at Proverbs 19:25 (where see note). The simple (parvulus, Vulgate) profit by the punishment of the incorrigibly evil But the wise need not chastisement for their improvement. When the wise is instructed (Psalm 32:6), he (the wise) receiveth knowledge. The wise man uses every opportunity, takes advantage of every circumstance and event, to increase his knowledge and experience. The Vulgate carries on the subject, "And if he (the simple) follow the wise man, he shall attain knowledge." Septuagint, "When the intemperate man is punished, the simple is made cleverer; and a wise man understanding will receive knowledge." "For it often happens," says St. Gregory ('Moral.,' 18:38). "that the mind of the weak is the more unsteadied from the hearing of the truth, as it sees the despisers of the truth flourishing; but when just vengeance takes away the unjust, it keeps others away from wickedness."

God publicly deals with scoffers so the undecided will wake up, yet He also privately instructs the teachable so they’ll keep growing. The verse reassures us that the LORD’s justice and instruction work hand-in-hand: punishment curbs rebellion, and loving correction enriches the obedient. Whether through warnings we observe or counsel we receive, the path to wisdom is open—fear Him, stay teachable, and knowledge will abound.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
When a mocker
לֵ֭ץ‪‬ (lêṣ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3887: Ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker

is punished,
בַּעְנָשׁ־ (ba‘·nāš-)
Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 6064: To urge, to inflict a, penalty, to fine

the simple
פֶּ֑תִי (pe·ṯî)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6612: Simple, perhaps open-minded

gain wisdom;
יֶחְכַּם־ (yeḥ·kam-)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2449: To be wise

and when a wise man
לְ֝חָכָ֗ם (lə·ḥā·ḵām)
Preposition-l | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2450: Wise

is instructed,
וּבְהַשְׂכִּ֥יל (ū·ḇə·haś·kîl)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct
Strong's 7919: To be, circumspect, intelligent

he acquires
יִקַּח־ (yiq·qaḥ-)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3947: To take

knowledge.
דָּֽעַת׃ (dā·‘aṯ)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1847: Knowledge


Additonal Resources
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 21:11 When the mocker is punished the simple (Prov. Pro Pr)

Proverbs 21:10
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