King James Version
Proverbs 5:12 in the King James Version says “And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;”
Proverbs 5:12 · KJV
Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger; thy wealth: Heb. thy strength
And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,
And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;
And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!
I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“instruction”
H4148properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint
“reproof”
H8433chastisement; figuratively (by words) correction, refutation, proof (even in defense)
“and my heart”
H3820the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
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.
Proverbs 5:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 5:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge