John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 3. A whip for the horse , etc.] One that is dull of going, or refractory and wants breaking; a bridle for the ass ; not to curb and restrain it from going too fist, asses being generally dull; but to direct its way and turn it when necessary, it being stiffnecked and obstinate; though the Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic versions, render it a “spear” or “goad”, something to prick with, and excite it to motion; and so the Targum; or otherwise one would have thought the whip was fitter for the ass and the bridle for the horse; and a rod for the fool’s back ; suggesting that the fool, or wicked man, is like the horse or the mule; though not without understanding of things natural, yet of things divine and moral; and as stupid as the ass, however wise he may conceit himself to be, being born like a wild ass’s colt; and instead of honour being given him, stripes should be laid upon him; he should be reproved sharply, and corrected for his wickedness, especially the causeless curser, ( Proverbs 19:29).
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 3 - Every creature must be dealt with according to its nature, but careles and profligate sinners never will be ruled by reason and persuasion Man indeed is born like the wild ass's colt; but some, by the grace of God, are changed.
Original Hebrew שׁוט7752 לסוס5483 מתג4964 לחמור2543 ושׁבט7626 לגו1460 כסילים׃3684
