Proverbs 13:24
What does Proverbs 13:24 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 13:24 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 13:24 means
Proverbs 13:24 asserts that withholding discipline from a child is an act of hatred, while actively administering it demonstrates love. The "rod" here symbolizes corrective discipline, not necessarily physical abuse, but whatever means are necessary to guide a child towards righteousness. The verse highlights the parental responsibility to shape a child's character and moral compass. This discipline, though potentially unpleasant in the moment, is ultimately for the child's good, preventing them from errant paths and fostering their well-being. It underscores the idea that true parental love involves firm guidance and correction, not just indulgence or avoidance of confrontation, to instill wisdom and proper conduct.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000He that spareth his rod hateth his son; But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
KJV
King James Version · 1611He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901He that spareth his rod hateth his son; But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He who keeps back his rod is unkind to his son: the loving father gives punishment with care.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Whoso is sparing his rod is hating his son, And whoso is loving him hath hastened him chastisement.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He that spareth the rod, hateth his son: but he that loveth him, correcteth him betimes.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Context
This verse fits within Proverbs 13, which is a collection of various proverbs offering practical wisdom for daily living. In this chapter, Solomon contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, and the diligent and the slothful. Immediately preceding this verse are proverbs discussing topics like the ruin of the wicked, the good inheritance of the just, and the fruit of righteousness for the upright. Following it are verses about the righteous having enough to eat, and the general principle that a wise son heeds his father's instruction. Proverbs 13:24 directly contributes to the overarching theme of wisdom by applying it to the context of child-rearing and the importance of parental guidance.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 19:18
Chasten thy son, seeing there is hope; And set not thy heart on his destruction.
- Proverbs 29:15
The rod and reproof give wisdom; But a child left to himself causeth shame to his mother.
- Hebrews 12:6
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, And scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
- Proverbs 3:12
For whom Jehovah loveth he reproveth, Even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.
- Proverbs 23:13
Withhold not correction from the child; Forif thou beat him with the rod, he will not die.
- Proverbs 29:17
Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul.
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