To whom does "Aved" refer?
Rashi: It is anyone who rebels against the judges' words.
Malbim: It is a slave.
Malbim (according to the metaphor): It is one who is like a slave.
What do we learn from "bi'Devarim Lo Yivaser Aved"?
Kesuvos 77a: If a man has been married for 10 years without children, we lash him until he divorces his wife. Verbal coercion will not help.
Malbim: A slave does not accept Musar verbally. A free man's nature is humane, and he is chastised verbally. We inform him about Yir'as Hashem and His punishment. A slave's nature is animalistic - "Shot la'Sus Meseg la'Chamor" (26:3) - words do not help.
Malbim (according to the metaphor): One who is like a slave works only amidst fear of punishment. He is not humbled until he receives punishment.
What is the meaning of "Ki Yavin v'Ein Ma'aneh"?
Rashi: Once he sees that one rebukes him, he is silent, and he returns to ruinous [deeds]. Therefore, one must afflict him with lashes and punishments.
Malbim: A slave has an advantage over an animal - he understands. Even so, there is no answer. Speech does not humble him, only a stick.
