King James Version
What Does Proverbs 1:22 Mean?
“How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?”
Context
20
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: Wisdom: Heb. Wisdoms, that is, Excellent wisdom
21
She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying,
22
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?
23
Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.
24
Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(22) **How long **. . .—Three classes of persons are here addressed: (1) *simple *ones, open to good influences, but also to evil (Proverbs 1:4); (2) *scorners *(*lētsîm*)*, *men who despised what was holy, priding themselves on their cleverness in so doing (Proverbs 14:6), who avoided the wise, and held themselves above their advice (Proverbs 15:12), proud, arrogant men (Proverbs 21:24). The name first appears at the time of Solomon, when the prosperity of the nation was favourable to the growth of religious indifference and scepticism. Isaiah had to deal with them in his day, too (Isaiah 28:14). (3) *Fools *(*khesîlîm*)*, *dull, stupid persons, stolidly confident in their own wisdom.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Proverbs 1:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Proverbs 1:22
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge