Proverbs 13:1
Proverbs 13:1 in Multiple Translations
A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
A wise son heareth his father’s instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke.
A wise son is a lover of teaching, but the ears of the haters of authority are shut to sharp words.
A wise son accepts his father's discipline, but a mocker doesn't listen to correction.
A wise sonne will obey the instruction of his father: but a scorner will heare no rebuke.
A wise son — the instruction of a father, And a scorner — he hath not heard rebuke.
A wise son listens to his father’s instruction, but a scoffer doesn’t listen to rebuke.
A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
A wise son heareth the doctrine of his father: but he that is a scorner, beareth not when he is reproved.
Children who are wise ◄pay attention/heed it► when their parents discipline/correct them; but foolish children do not pay attention when someone rebukes them for their bad behavior.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 13:1
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 13:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בֵּ֣ן
חָ֭כָם
מ֣וּסַר
אָ֑ב
וְ֝/לֵ֗ץ
לֹא
שָׁמַ֥ע
גְּעָרָֽה
בֵּ֣ן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
חָ֭כָם
châkâm
H2450
wise
Adj
מ֣וּסַר
mûwçâr
H4148
discipline
N-ms
אָ֑ב
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms
וְ֝/לֵ֗ץ
lûwts
H3887
to mock
Conj | Adj
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
שָׁמַ֥ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
גְּעָרָֽה
gᵉʻârâh
H1606
rebuke
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 13:1
בֵּ֣ן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
חָ֭כָם
châkâm
H2450
"wise"
Adj
This word means wise or skilled, describing someone intelligent or crafty, like a cunning man or a prudent leader.
Definition: 1) wise, wise (man) 1a) skilful (in technical work) 1b) wise (in administration) 1c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle 1d) learned, shrewd (class of men) 1e) prudent 1f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: cunning (man), subtil, (un-), wise((hearted), man). See also: Genesis 41:8; Proverbs 16:14; Psalms 49:11.
מ֣וּסַר
mûwçâr
H4148
"discipline"
N-ms
This Hebrew term means discipline or correction, often used to describe God's guidance. In Psalm 50:17, it warns against rejecting God's discipline, while in Proverbs 1:7, it emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining wisdom. It involves learning from mistakes.
Definition: : discipline/punishment 1) discipline, chastening, correction 1a) discipline, correction 1b) chastening
Usage: Occurs in 50 OT verses. KJV: bond, chastening(-eth), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke. See also: Deuteronomy 11:2; Proverbs 15:10; Psalms 50:17.
אָ֑ב
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
וְ֝/לֵ֗ץ
lûwts
H3887
"to mock"
Conj | Adj
This word means to mock or scorn someone, often by making fun of them or talking down to them. It can also refer to interpreting languages or acting as an ambassador. In some cases, it describes a person who is arrogant or boastful.
Definition: 1) to scorn, make mouths at, talk arrogantly 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to boast 1a2) to scorn 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to mock, deride 1b2) to interpret (language) 1b2a) interpreter (participle) 1b2b) ambassador (fig.) 1c) (Hithpalpel) to be inflated, scoff, act as a scorner, show oneself a mocker Also means: la.tsats (לָצַץ "to scorn" H3945)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, have in derision, interpreter, make a mock, mocker, scorn(-er, -ful), teacher. See also: Genesis 42:23; Proverbs 14:9; Psalms 1:1.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
שָׁמַ֥ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
גְּעָרָֽה
gᵉʻârâh
H1606
"rebuke"
N-fs
A rebuke is a stern warning or correction, often given to someone who has done wrong. It is a way of reproof, aiming to guide the person back to the right path.
Definition: a rebuke, reproof
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: rebuke(-ing), reproof. See also: 2 Samuel 22:16; Proverbs 13:8; Psalms 18:16.
Study Notes — Proverbs 13:1
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 13:1 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 13:1
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 13:1
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 13:1
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
- Sermons on Proverbs 13:1
Context — A Father’s Discipline
1A wise son heeds his father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
2From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the desire of the faithless is violence. 3He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 15:5 | A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent. |
| 2 | Proverbs 9:7–8 | 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. |
| 3 | Proverbs 15:20 | A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother. |
| 4 | Proverbs 4:1–14 | Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. For I give you sound teaching; do not abandon my directive. When I was a son to my father, tender and the only child of my mother, he taught me and said, “Let your heart lay hold of my words; keep my commands and you will live. Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you. She will set a garland of grace on your head; she will present you with a crown of beauty.” Listen, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life will be many. I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction; do not let go. Guard it, for it is your life. Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. |
| 5 | Proverbs 10:1 | The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 2:25 | If a man sins against another man, God can intercede for him; but if a man sins against the LORD, who can intercede for him?” But they would not listen to their father, since the LORD intended to put them to death. |
| 7 | Isaiah 28:14–15 | Therefore hear the word of the LORD, O scoffers who rule this people in Jerusalem. For you said, “We have made a covenant with death; we have fashioned an agreement with Sheol. When the overwhelming scourge passes through it will not touch us, because we have made lies our refuge and falsehood our hiding place.” |
| 8 | Proverbs 4:20–22 | My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and health to the whole body. |
| 9 | Proverbs 14:6 | A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning. |
Proverbs 13:1 Summary
This verse teaches us that a wise person listens to and learns from correction, whether from their parents or others. On the other hand, someone who mocks and disrespects others will not listen to rebuke and will likely suffer negative consequences. As seen in Proverbs 3:11-12, God disciplines those He loves, and we should heed His discipline in order to grow in wisdom and holiness. By being open to guidance and correction, we can become wiser and more discerning, just like the wise son in this verse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'heed' one's father's discipline?
To heed one's father's discipline means to listen to, obey, and learn from the guidance and correction given by one's father, as seen in Proverbs 1:8 and Ephesians 6:1-3.
Who is the 'mocker' in this verse and what is their attitude towards rebuke?
The mocker is someone who scoffs at and rejects correction, as described in Proverbs 9:7-8, and their attitude towards rebuke is one of disdain and disregard, refusing to listen and learn from it.
How does this verse relate to our relationship with God as our heavenly Father?
This verse can be applied to our relationship with God, as seen in Hebrews 12:5-11, where God disciplines those He loves, and we should heed His discipline and correction in order to grow in wisdom and holiness.
What are the consequences of not listening to rebuke?
The consequences of not listening to rebuke can be severe, as seen in Proverbs 29:1, where a person who hardens their neck after many rebukes will suddenly be broken beyond remedy, highlighting the importance of humility and a willingness to learn from correction.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can apply the principle of heeding discipline in my own life, whether from my parents, spiritual leaders, or God Himself?
- How do I respond to rebuke or correction - do I receive it with humility and a willingness to learn, or do I become defensive and dismissive?
- In what areas of my life do I need to be more receptive to guidance and correction, and how can I cultivate a heart that is open to learning and growth?
- What are some potential consequences of ignoring or rejecting discipline and rebuke, and how can I avoid these pitfalls in my own life?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 13:1
A wise son [heareth] his father's instruction,.... As he should, and has good reason to do; since it must be cordial, faithful, and disinterested, as well as the effect of age and experience.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke. A wise son (heareth) his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
CHAPTER 13 Heareth; which word is understood out of the next clause, as is frequent in the Hebrew text. Instruction; or, rebuke or reproof. Heareth not rebuke; he hateth reproof, either from his father or from any other man.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
Proverbs 13:1 A wise son [heareth] his father’ s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke. Ver. 1. A wise son heareth his father’ s instruction.] Heb., Is the instruction or discipline of his father; he was not natus sapiens, as Appollonius, sed factus, not born wise to salvation, but made so by his father’ s discipline, as Solomon. But a scorner heareth not rebuke.] Or, Heareth and jeereth; - as Lot’ s sons-in-law, as Eli’ s sons, and afterwards Samuel’ s. Samuel succeeds Eli in his cross, as well as in his place, though not in his sin of indulgence. God will shew that grace is by gift, not by inheritance or education. Ciceroni degenerem fuisse filium constat, et sapiens ille Socrates liberos habuit matri similiores quam patri, saith Seneca. Cicero had a son nothing like him; so had Socrates. Philostratus.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
XIII. (1) A wise son heareth his father’s instruction.—Or, is his father’s instruction, i.e., the result and embodiment of it. A scorner.—See above on Proverbs 1:22.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
CHAPTER XIII Various moral sentences; the wise child; continence of speech; of the poor rich man and the rich poor man; ill-gotten wealth; delay of what is hoped for; the bad consequences of refusing instruction; providing for one's children; the necessity of correcting them, c. NOTES ON CHAP. XIII Verse 1. A wise son heareth his father's instruction] The child that has had a proper nurturing, will profit by his father's counsels but the child that is permitted to fulfil its own will and have its own way, will jest at the reproofs of its parents.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 13:1
Heareth - The verb of the second clause is inserted in the first, just as in the next verse that of the first is inserted in the second.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 13:1
1. A wise son, etc. — There is no verb in this clause, and the translators have anticipated the verb heareth, of the next clause.
Sermons on Proverbs 13:1
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Not Only Is the Boon of Obedience by St. Benedict of Nursia | St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of obedience within the monastery, instructing the brethren to obey the Abbot and each other as a path to God. He stresses the need |
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God's Truth: Authority and Discipline by Russell Kelfer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's word and the need for consistency in following through with what is said. He shares a personal anecdote about his so |
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Sowing and Reaping by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that God is always watching over us. He shares a story of a father and son who plan to cut a log on someone el |
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The Right Reaction to Correction by Derek Prince | Derek Prince emphasizes the importance of how individuals react to correction and reproof, highlighting that one's response reveals their character. Those who respond with anger an |
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Teaching by John Follette | John Follette emphasizes the importance of training children in the way they should go, highlighting the need to go beyond just telling them what to do. He explains the process of |
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The Final Warning by Asahel Nettleton | Asahel Nettleton delivers a powerful sermon on the importance of receiving reproof with humility and the consequences of hardening one's heart against correction. He emphasizes the |
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Repentance From Dead Works by Richard Owen Roberts | Richard Owen Roberts preaches on the biblical demand for repentance, emphasizing the need to repent not only from sins but also from dead works. He delves into the difference betwe |