Proverbs 14:9

9. Fools make a mock at sin As the verb in the original is singular, not agreeing with אולים , ( evilim,) fools, as its subject, it is somewhat probable that the sentence should be transposed, making אשׁם , ( asham,) guilt, or sin offering, the subject. Stuart renders, “sin offering mocks fools;” (wicked men;) mocks their hopes, because not accepted. The word asham is frequently used for sin offering, or trespass offering. Comp. 1Sa 6:3 ; 2 Kings 12:17; Isaiah 55:10; Ezekiel 40:39, and many other places. Other critics, transposing the sentence as above, retain the word sin; thus: Sin makes a mock of fools; that is, deludes them, exposes them to shame and contempt, which is fitly opposed to the favour or good will of the next clause; there are, however, some great names for the old rendering, perhaps regarding evilim as the plural of intensity. The matter may be considered as not entirely settled, but with the preponderance in favour of the transposition. Zockler reads, “Sacrifice maketh sport,” etc.; Conant, “Guilt makes a mock;” Miller, “Sin makes a mock at fools.” Compare Proverbs 1:22; Proverbs 10:23; Proverbs 26:18-19; Jude 1:18.