Proverbs 15:32

32 He who refuses correction despises his own soul, But he who listens to reproof gets understanding.

Proverbs 15:32 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 15:32

He that refuseth instruction
The instruction of parents, masters, ministers, and of God himself; or "correction" ^F25, instruction either by the word or by the rod; he that withdraws himself from it, will not be in the way of it, that shuns, neglects, and despises it, or carelessly and contemptuously attends it: despiseth his own soul;
shows that he makes no account of it, has no regard for it or care about it, when it is so precious a jewel, and the loss of it irreparable; not that a man can strictly and properly despise his soul, but comparatively, having a greater regard for his body, and especially for his carnal lusts and pleasures, than for that; or as a man diseased and refuses proper medicines may be said to despise his health; but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding;
or "a heart" ^F26; he gets understanding by listening to reproof, and behaving according to it; he better understands himself and his case, what he should shun and avoid, what he should receive, embrace, and do; instead of losing his soul, as the man that refuses correction does, he finds the life of it, and possesses it, and with it a large share of experience and spiritual wisdom.

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FOOTNOTES:

F25 (rowm) "correctionem", Pagninus, Vatablus; "qui abstrahit se a castigatione", Piscator.
F26 (bl) "cor", Pagninus, Piscator, Schultens, Michaelis.

Proverbs 15:32 In-Context

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart. Good news gives health to the bones.

31 The ear that listens to the reproof lives, And will be at home among the wise.

32 He who refuses correction despises his own soul, But he who listens to reproof gets understanding.

33 The fear of the LORD teaches wisdom. Before honor is humility.