25 Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.
25 Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware:
25 Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
25 Punish the insolent - make an example of them. Who knows? Somebody might learn a good lesson.
25 Strike a scoffer, and the simple will become wary; Rebuke one who has understanding, and he will discern knowledge.
25 If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded will learn a lesson; if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 19:25
Commentary on Proverbs 19:25
(Read Proverbs 19:25)
A gentle rebuke goes farthest with a man of understanding.