“In the lips of the wise is found wisdom, etc. The rod on the back is vengeance on the posterior, that is, in the following life; well expressed by that famous plague by which the Philistines were struck on their buttocks (1 Sam. V). Therefore, whoever does not want to carry the rod on their back, let them carry wisdom…”
Bede, 8th c. — Commentary on Proverbs
Original
13In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.
Modern
Preparing…
Teens
Preparing…
Kids
Preparing…
In context
11The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
12Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
— Proverbs 10:13 —
14Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.
15The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.