Proverbs 29:19 - Exposition

A servant will not be corrected by words. Mere words will not suffice to teach a slave, any more than a child, true, practical wisdom. He needs severer measures, even the correction of personal discipline. Septuagint, "By words a stubborn ( σκληρὸς ) slave will not be instructed." The next clause gives an explanation of this necessity. For though he understand he will not answer. The answer is not merely the verbal response to a command, as, "I go, sir;" but it implies obedience in action. The reluctant slave thoroughly understands the order given, but he pays no heed to it, will not trouble himself to execute it, and therefore must meet with stern treatment (comp. Proverbs 29:15 ; Proverbs 23:13 , etc.; Proverbs 26:3 ). "That servant which knew his Lord's will, and made not ready, nor did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes" ( Luke 12:47 ). Septuagint, "For even if he understand, he will not obey."