Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 21:24

ESV "Scoffer" is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride.
NIV The proud and arrogant person—"Mocker" is his name— behaves with insolent fury.
NASB 'Proud,' 'Arrogant,' 'Scoffer,' are his names, One who acts with insolent pride.
CSB The arrogant and proud person, named "Mocker," acts with excessive arrogance.
NLT Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance.
KJV Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.
NKJV A proud and haughty man— “Scoffer” is his name; He acts with arrogant pride.

What does Proverbs 21:24 mean?

This statement provides a handy reference for other proverbs where Solomon refers to a "scoffer" or "mocker" (Proverbs 9:7; 13:1; 15:12; 24:9). This person is conceited and overconfident, with behavior betraying a smug type of egotism. The scoffer doesn't necessarily brag or flaunt their attitude. However, they think and act as if their opinion is as good as fact; as if nothing, even God Himself, is sufficient to change their mind.

Attitudes associated with a "scoffer" mock others, including God. Asaph describes wicked men as scoffers who "set their mouths against the heavens" (Psalm 73:9). These people have a high opinion of themselves, presuming themselves more important than others, including God. Genesis 11 relates the story of a generation so arrogant that its people thought they should be remembered forever. They planned to build a city with an immense tower, probably as a way of claiming they were immune to another great flood (Genesis 11:4). Despite their egomania, God judged the arrogant builders by confusing their language and scattering them over the face of the earth (Genesis 11:7–8). Humility will come to all people, either by submission to the Creator or because of His judgment (Matthew 23:12; Proverbs 3:34–35).
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