Words which embrace nearly the whole theory of punishment. If the man who offends is a “scorner,” hardened beyond all hope of reformation, then pun…

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware. For “scorner” and “simple” see note on Proverbs 1:22. Reproof is of no avail…

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware
That is, give reproof to a man that scoffs at religion, and makes a jest…

A gentle rebuke goes farthest with a man of understanding.