Corn is cleansed with the wind, and the soul with chastening.

The proverb compares the removal of unwanted matter from grain with the moral improvement that can follow correction. In both cases, the cleansing process may be uncomfortable or forceful.

It presents chastening as a possible means of growth: someone who takes a reprimand or difficult lesson to heart may recognize faults and change their conduct.

Use it to reflect on a correction or difficult lesson that has helped someone reconsider their behavior. Because it casts chastening in a positive light, it may sound stern or unsympathetic when addressed to someone who is still distressed.