Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse,

and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.

Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you;

reprove a wise man, and he will love you.

A wise son hears his father's instruction,

but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain,

but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.

A scoffer does not like to be reproved;

he will not go to the wise.

Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence;

reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise;

when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.

“Scoffer” is the name of the arrogant, haughty man

who acts with arrogant pride.

Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out,

and quarreling and abuse will cease.

The devising of folly is sin,

and the scoffer is an abomination to mankind.

For the ruthless shall come to nothing

and the scoffer cease,

and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off,