Bible Strands
Proverbs 25:12
Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The text presents a proverbial comparison from the compiled sayings of Proverbs 25, addressing a general audience with a "listening ear." It functions within a sequence of similes about the value of well-timed words and faithful messengers.
The words — The Hebrew נֶזֶם (ne.zem) literally means "earring," and כָּתֶם (ka.tem) denotes "pure gold." These terms establish the material standard for the comparison.
The thread — The acceptance of correction appears in Psalms 141:5, Proverbs 9:8, and Proverbs 15:31. These passages consistently link the reception of reproof with wisdom and relational integrity.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to assign high value to wise correction and to maintain an open ear rather than a defensive one. It demands practical submission to truth when it is offered.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
Cross-references
- Psalms 141:5 Let the righteous man strike me; let his rebuke be an act of loving devotion. It is oil for my head; let me not refuse it. For my prayer is ever against the deeds of the wicked.
- Proverbs 15:31 He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.
- Proverbs 9:8 Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
- Proverbs 27:5 Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed.
- 1 Samuel 25:31 then my lord will have no remorse or guilt of conscience over needless bloodshed and revenge. And when the LORD has dealt well with my lord, may you remember your servant.”
- Proverbs 15:5 A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.
- Job 42:11 All his brothers and sisters and prior acquaintances came and dined with him in his house. They consoled him and comforted him over all the adversity that the LORD had brought upon him. And each one gave him a piece of silver and a gold ring.
- Proverbs 1:8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother.
- Proverbs 20:12 Ears that hear and eyes that see—the LORD has made them both.