King James Version
Proverbs 9:8 in the King James Version says “Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.”
Proverbs 9:8 · KJV
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
KJV Study — Public Domain
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
“Reprove”
H3198to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
“not a scorner”
H3887properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
“Reprove”
H3198to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
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 9:8 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 9:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge