Fools and Folly

(Proverbs 16:22 KJV)  Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

Does this mean the “instruction” (discipline NASB) (4148) directed toward fools or by them?  Many translations leave it ambiguous.  Some translate it as futility of trying to teach fools anything.  As a teacher I see both sides.

It is almost impossible to get something across to a child who is convinced that they have the world by the tail and you are just an official of the state trying to limit their free expression.  Assuming we are talking about the difference between free enterprise and socialism, an important issue in today’s changing culture.  They refuse to see how this will influence what the girl in the next row thinks of their new haircut.  They are right and oh so wrong.

On the other side I am forced to follow the directions of adults who think that children are fountains of pristine wisdom and that given the chance they will do the right thing.  These are called Administrators, Professors, and Consultants.  They used to be called Pagans.

So?  Are you surrounded by people like this?  If I may be indelicate, are you one of them?  First check the beam, then we will worry about the moat.  Study the word so that you can know that the “folly” (200) is not on your end.