John Gill Commentary Proverbs 25:12

"[As] an ear-ring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, [So is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear." — Proverbs 25:12 (ASV)

[As] an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold
As a golden earring, when first put on, gives pain and uneasiness; but, being well hung and fixed, is very ornamental, being of fine gold, and especially when any jewels are upon it; which may be meant by the ornament, as the word is rendered, (Song of Solomon 7:1) ; [so is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear ;
such is the reproof of a wise man, which is seasonably given, in a fit and proper manner; and which appears to proceed from love, and is designed for good, and done in great affection and faithfulness: this, though it may be a little grating to the ear at first, yet, when well considered and received, instead of leaving any infamy or reproach on the person reproved, it is an ornament to him, as well as reflects honour upon the reprover. It may be rendered, "[so is] he that reproveth a wise man, upon" or "with an obedient ear" ^F7 ; a wise man that has an obedient or hearing ear, who is so wise as to altered to reproofs given him, and which he takes kindly, and receives profit and advantage from them; see (Proverbs 9:8) (15:31) .

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FOOTNOTES:

• F7: (Mkx xykwm) "qui arguit sapientem", V. L. Pagninus, Mercerus, Gejerus.