He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.

Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.

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

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.

12 If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.

Read full chapter

Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults;
    whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse.(A)
Do not rebuke mockers(B) or they will hate you;
    rebuke the wise and they will love you.(C)
Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still;
    teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.(D)

10 The fear of the Lord(E) is the beginning of wisdom,
    and knowledge of the Holy One(F) is understanding.(G)
11 For through wisdom[a] your days will be many,
    and years will be added to your life.(H)
12 If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you;
    if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 9:11 Septuagint, Syriac and Targum; Hebrew me