Proverbs 25:12 kjv

As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

Proverbs 25:12 nkjv

Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.

Proverbs 25:12 niv

Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.

Proverbs 25:12 esv

Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.

Proverbs 25:12 nlt

To one who listens, valid criticism
is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.

Proverbs 25 verses

Proverbs 25 12 Meaning

Proverbs 25:12 teaches the immense value of wise correction received by a receptive person. It likens a discerning reprover delivering counsel to a person willing to listen, to precious ornaments of gold—indicating it is something beautiful, rare, and highly prized. The verse underscores that the true benefit and beauty of wise rebuke only manifest when there is a humble, open ear to receive it.

Proverbs 25 12 Context

Proverbs 25 contains various proverbs "copied by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah." These proverbs often deal with wise governance, social etiquette, relationships, and personal conduct. Verse 12 appears within a cluster of sayings that emphasize the importance of communication—both giving and receiving it. The broader context of the book of Proverbs consistently extols wisdom and understanding, frequently highlighting that gaining wisdom involves being receptive to instruction, correction, and reproof. Historically, the collection reflects the deep value placed on oral teaching and mentorship within ancient Israelite society, where wise counsel was seen as vital for individual flourishing and community stability. There are no direct polemics here, but an implicit contrast to the self-assured fool who rejects instruction.

Proverbs 25 12 Word analysis

• Like an earring (נֶזֶם, nêzem) of gold (זָהָב, zâhâv): Nêzem refers to an ornament worn in the ear or nose. It was a common item of personal adornment and significant wealth. Gold, zâhâv, consistently represents purity, high value, and lasting quality throughout Scripture. The comparison establishes immediate preciousness.
• or an ornament (חֲלִי, chaliy) of fine gold (כֶּתֶם, kethem): Chaliy broadly means jewelry or adornment. Kethem is a rare and poetic term specifically for pure or refined gold, signifying ultimate value and exquisite beauty. This parallelism intensifies the image, emphasizing the superlative worth. These items were not just valuable; they were often heirlooms and symbols of status, beauty, and love.
• is a wise (חָכָם, chakam) reprover (מוֹכִיחַ, mokhiach): Mokhiach means "one who proves, convinces, or convicts"; it can also mean to "reprove, rebuke, or correct." It implies not just accusation but constructive conviction aimed at setting one straight. Chakam denotes "wise, skillful, or sagacious," possessing practical wisdom, insight, and discernment. The reproof is not rash or unkind, but carefully considered and aimed at instruction. This combination signifies that the value comes from who is reproving (wise) and how it's done.
• to a listening (שֹׁמַעַת, shoma'at) ear (אֹזֶן, ozen): Ozen is the ear, but the participle shoma'at (from shama) conveys more than mere hearing. Shama often means to "hear, listen, understand, obey, or heed." A "listening ear" implies a heart posture of receptivity, humility, and willingness to understand and apply the counsel. It's an active, obedient ear, not a passive one.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• "Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold": This initial simile immediately sets a high standard of value. These are not merely useful items, but beautiful, enduring, and prized possessions. The imagery highlights rarity and desirability, something cherished and admired. In ancient cultures, such adornments were significant displays of wealth and personal beauty, enhancing the wearer's appearance and status. The comparison suggests that a wise reproof, when received well, beautifies and enriches the receiver, akin to precious jewelry enhancing one's person.
• "is a wise reprover": This phrase pinpoints the source of the "gold." It's not just any criticism, but specific, discerning correction. The reprover must possess wisdom—discretion, understanding of timing, knowledge of the person, and insight into the truth. The act of reproof, tokahath, often has redemptive aims in the biblical worldview, intended for growth and correction, not just condemnation. The "wise" aspect emphasizes that the critique is born from spiritual maturity and insight.
• "to a listening ear": This crucial phrase specifies the necessary recipient. The value of the wise reprover is realized only when the counsel falls on receptive ground. An unwilling, rebellious, or proud ear turns the gold to dross. This emphasizes the dual responsibility: the reprover must be wise, and the recipient must be willing to hear, understand, and obey. It underscores that true learning and growth are dependent on humility and open-mindedness. The imagery implies that the precious "earring" is worn by the "listening ear," meaning the counsel becomes part of the individual, adorning and benefitting them.

Proverbs 25 12 Bonus section

The "listening ear" (אֹזֶן שֹׁמַעַת, ozen shoma'at) carries strong theological implications beyond mere hearing. In Hebrew thought, "to hear" (shama') frequently implies not just auditory reception but also attentive understanding, obedience, and action. Therefore, a "listening ear" isn't passive; it signifies a heart that is teachable, humble, and ready to comply with the wisdom received. This active form of listening transforms potentially difficult criticism into something of great beauty and benefit, much like fine gold. The comparison to precious ornaments implies that wise reproof, when received well, becomes an integral part of one's spiritual adornment, adding value, grace, and moral beauty to the character. This highlights that growth often comes through embracing discomfort, turning correction into a refining process.

Proverbs 25 12 Commentary

Proverbs 25:12 paints a vivid picture of mutual excellence. The verse illustrates that the profound worth of a truly wise correction, born from discernment and care, is fully apprehended only when it is welcomed by a heart that genuinely seeks understanding and growth. It's a bilateral gift: the sagacious individual who courageously and carefully offers truth, and the humble person who is quick to listen and embrace it. Without the listening ear, the reproof, however wise, becomes wasted, its potential beauty and benefit lost. It emphasizes spiritual maturity, where genuine wisdom recognizes the need for ongoing correction and welcomes it as an invaluable adornment rather than an assault.

Examples for practical usage:

• A student humbly receiving correction from a knowledgeable teacher, leading to better understanding.
• A church member listening intently to a pastor's sermon, allowing conviction to shape their actions.
• A spouse thoughtfully considering their partner's concerns about their habits, leading to relational improvement.