The simple; the honest or plain-hearted man, as Proverbs 19:25, where this whole verse for the substance of it is contained and explained. Instructed; or, prospers, as this word is used, Proverbs 17:8, and elsewhere. So the sense of the verse is, The simple learn wisdom, both from the punishment of wicked men, and from the prosperity of good men.
Related Commentaries of Proverbs 21:11
Proverbs 21:11
11 When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.