What does Proverbs 26:12 mean?

It's been said that "intent is prior to content." That implies that what a person wants to believe is more influential than any facts they are given. When someone sincerely believes they could not possibly be wrong, they are immune to learning and correction (Proverbs 1:24–26; 8:33; 16:18; 19:20) . In this way, Solomon (Proverbs 25:1) expresses pessimism about those with an inflated ego. His comparison is extraordinary, since a "fool" in Proverbs rejects godly truth and wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5–8). For Solomon to suggest someone has less hope than a fool is brutal criticism.

The apostle James decries pride. He quotes Proverbs 3:34 in James 4:6: "Therefore it says, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'" Jesus illustrated the truth given in James 4:6. He told a story about two men who prayed in the temple. The Pharisee boasted about himself, claiming he was superior to the despised tax collector. But God rejected the Pharisee's prayer. On the other hand, the tax collector was humble, repentant, and asked for God's mercy. Jesus said the tax collector went home justified in God's sight (Luke 18:9–14).