Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 19:25

"Smite a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; And reprove one that hath understanding, [and] he will understand knowledge." — Proverbs 19:25 (ASV)

Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware. For “scorner” and “simple” see note on Proverbs 1:22. Reproof is of no avail to turn the “scorner” from his evil way (Proverbs 9:7; Proverbs 13:1; Proverbs 15:12); punishment will also do him no good. But it may make the “simple,” whose character is not yet formed for good or evil, reflect and amend. So God at first punishes sinners for their good (Amos 4:6 and following). Afterwards, when they are obdurate, He does so as a warning to others (Amos 4:12; Deuteronomy 29:21 and following).