Proverbs 13:18 kjv

Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

Proverbs 13:18 nkjv

Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, But he who regards a rebuke will be honored.

Proverbs 13:18 niv

Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.

Proverbs 13:18 esv

Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is honored.

Proverbs 13:18 nlt

If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace;
if you accept correction, you will be honored.

Proverbs 13 verses

Proverbs 13 18 Meaning

The proverb conveys a fundamental principle of divine wisdom: rejecting or neglecting discipline and instruction inevitably leads to a life marked by hardship, disgrace, and destitution. Conversely, diligently heeding and embracing corrective counsel and teaching results in a life of respect, esteem, and divine favor. It underscores the profound consequences of one's attitude towards wisdom and correction.

Proverbs 13 18 Context

Proverbs chapter 13 is a collection of diverse proverbs, typically contrasting the characteristics and outcomes of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Common themes in the chapter include the power of words, the consequences of idleness versus diligence, the value of discipline, and the implications of wealth and poverty. Verse 18 fits seamlessly into this framework by presenting a clear antithesis: two opposing responses to "instruction" and "reproof," leading to two starkly different results. The entire book of Proverbs emphasizes the acquisition and application of wisdom as the paramount pursuit for a life lived rightly before God and humanity, portraying wisdom as divine in origin and discipline as the primary means by which it is internalized. For the ancient Israelite audience, societal honor and avoiding shame were deeply significant, directly tied to one's reputation and standing within the community, reinforcing the proverb's powerful message.

Proverbs 13 18 Word analysis

• Poverty: The Hebrew word is rîš (רִישׁ). It refers to a state of being poor, needy, or lacking. In the biblical context, poverty is not always just material destitution but can encompass a lack of resources, social standing, or well-being in a broader sense. Here, it is presented as a direct consequence of rejecting wisdom.
• and shame: The Hebrew word is qālôn (קָלוֹן). It means disgrace, dishonor, ignominy, or contempt. This highlights a public humiliation or loss of reputation. In ancient near eastern cultures, shame was a powerful deterrent, often worse than physical suffering, and carried significant social consequences for the individual and their family.
• shall be to him that refuseth: The verb pôreaʿ (פּוֹרֵעַ) means to neglect, let loose, or cast off. It implies not just a passive disregard but an active rejection or an unconstrained abandonment of discipline, akin to breaking free from a restraint or failing to fulfill an obligation.
• instruction: The Hebrew word is mûsār (מוּסָר). This is a foundational concept in Proverbs, meaning discipline, correction, teaching, training, or moral instruction. It often refers to the kind of firm guidance given by parents or a teacher, intended to mold character and impart wisdom. It is for one's own good and implies a path to growth.
• but he that regardeth: The verb šômēr (שׁוֹמֵר) means to keep, observe, guard, heed, or watch over. It signifies not just listening, but carefully attending to, actively preserving, and acting upon the counsel received. It implies a willing and obedient heart.
• reproof: The Hebrew word is tôkahaṯ (תּוֹכַחַת). While similar to mûsār, it often carries the specific nuance of a rebuke, correction, admonition, or argument intended to expose error or guilt and guide back to the right path. It can be a sharper, more direct form of instruction.
• shall be honoured: The verb yᵊḵubbāḏ (יְכֻבָּד) is derived from kābaḏ, meaning to be heavy, significant, or weighty. Thus, to be honored means to be esteemed, given respect, recognized for one's worth, and held in high regard. It suggests both internal dignity and external recognition within the community, often signifying God's blessing on one's life.

Proverbs 13 18 Bonus section

The phrase "poverty and shame" points to a double consequence for neglecting wisdom. Poverty often arises from poor decisions, a lack of diligence, or the squandering of resources, which can all be tied back to a refusal of wise counsel. Shame refers to a loss of status, respect, or good name in the community. These are not merely temporal consequences but often indicators of a deep-seated spiritual deficit – a lack of reverence for God's revealed truth. The Hebrew concept of mûsār (instruction/discipline) is often depicted as something unpleasant but necessary, like pruning a vine for greater fruitfulness. Its acceptance is a hallmark of the wise and a pathway to a life lived in accordance with God's design, leading to the divine favor expressed as "honor." Conversely, spurning mûsār is indicative of folly and brings self-inflicted spiritual, social, and often material ruin. This proverb underscores that humility and a teachable spirit are vital for experiencing true abundance and respect.

Proverbs 13 18 Commentary

Proverbs 13:18 is a concise statement illustrating the enduring law of cause and effect in the moral realm, central to the wisdom literature. It posits a clear antithesis: the individual who stubbornly "refuses instruction" is destined for a life marred by both material poverty and social shame. This refusal is not merely passive ignorance but an active casting off of valuable guidance, which often stems from pride or stubbornness. Such a person invites consequences that affect their well-being and their standing.

In stark contrast, the one who "regards reproof" demonstrates humility and wisdom. To "regard" signifies actively heeding, embracing, and internalizing correction. This individual demonstrates a teachable spirit, acknowledging that their growth depends on accepting guidance, even when it involves challenging their own perspectives or actions. This teachable disposition leads directly to "honor," implying respect, high esteem, and the inherent dignity that comes from living wisely. This honor may manifest as a good reputation, increased influence, material blessing, or more importantly, the favor of God and integrity of character. The proverb thus encourages a life of humility, continuous learning, and responsiveness to correction, highlighting that such a path is ultimately the one to true flourishing and respect.

• Example: A young person who dismisses parental advice about work ethic often struggles financially and socially later in life, bringing shame to themselves and their family.
• Example: A church leader who humbly listens to congregational feedback and pastoral accountability grows in effectiveness and is respected by the community.