Bible Strands
Proverbs 29:19
A servant cannot be corrected by words alone; though he understands, he will not respond.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The book of Proverbs addresses those in authority, using the management of a resistant servant as a practical case study.
The words — עָ֑בֶד ('A.ved) translates as a slave, and יִוָּ֣סֶר (yi.Va.ser) means he will let himself be instructed.
The thread — The text parallels the unresponsive servant in Job 19:16, aligns with the disciplinary mandate of Proverbs 26:3, and contrasts with the elevated servant in Proverbs 30:22.
Why it lands — It demands recognition that verbal instruction alone fails with certain resistant individuals, requiring a different method of correction.
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
A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.
Cross-references
- Job 19:16 I call for my servant, but he does not answer, though I implore him with my own mouth.
- Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!
- Proverbs 30:22 a servant who becomes king, a fool who is filled with food,