15:31

This proverb is a single line. There are no parallel parts. The Notes have divided it into two lines for ease of reference.

31a He who listens to life-giving reproof

31b will dwell among the wise.

15:31a

He who listens: In Hebrew, this phrase is literally “an ear ⌊that⌋ hears.” As in similar verses, “an ear that hears” is a figure of speech. It represents a person who hears. It is implied that a person who listens to a reproof also accepts it or heeds it.

life-giving reproof: The phrase that the Berean Standard Bible translates as life-giving reproof is literally “rebuke/admonition of life.” This probably means “a rebuke that leads to or results in ⌊a longer or better⌋ life.” For example:

correction to improve your life (New Century Version)

15:31b

will dwell among the wise: The phrase that the Berean Standard Bible translates as will dwell among is literally “will remain in the midst of.” Here it probably indicates that the person who heeds advice will become a member of the group of wise people. He will regularly associate with them and enjoy their company.

In some languages, a literal translation of this phrase may wrongly imply that the one who heeds advice starts to live with wise people in their home. Another way to translate this is:

will enjoy the society of the wise (Revised English Bible)

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