Proverbs 15:31 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Bible Comments

The ear that heareth the reproof of life The man that hearkens to and delights in that reproof and good counsel which lead to life; abideth among the wise He will thereby be made wise, and be esteemed one of that number: or rather, he seeks and delights in the company and conversation of the wise, by whom he may be admonished; as, on the contrary, fools, who hate reproof, avoid and abhor the society of wise men and reprovers, Amos 5:10. He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul Which he thereby exposes to the danger of utter destruction, and so shows his folly; but he that heareth, &c., getteth understanding Whereby he saves his soul. Hebrew, קונה לב, possesseth a heart, which the Hebrews make the seat of wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the instruction, &c. Doth instruct men in, or lead them to, true wisdom, whence it is said to be the beginning of wisdom; and before honour Or, the ready way to honour, both from God and men; is humility Whereby men submit to God, and yield to men, which gains them love and respect; whereas pride procures them hatred and contempt, both from God and man.

Proverbs 15:31-33

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instructione despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.