Proverbs 23:22
What does Proverbs 23:22 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 23:22 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 23:22 means
Proverbs 23:22 emphasizes the lifelong respect and obedience owed to parents. "Listen to your father" implies not just hearing, but heeding his instruction and wisdom, acknowledging his role in your very existence. The parallel command, "don’t despise your mother when she is old," highlights a common human failing: neglecting or disrespecting elderly parents, especially mothers who may become physically weaker or more demanding. "Despise" carries the weight of looking down on, rejecting, or treating with contempt. The verse calls for an enduring honor that transcends changing circumstances, recognizing the foundational gift of life and the continuous care provided by parents.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Give ear to your father whose child you are, and do not keep honour from your mother when she is old.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Hearken to thy father, who begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she hath become old.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Hearken to thy father, that begot thee: and despise not thy mother when she is old.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
Context
This verse is part of a larger section of proverbs (chapters 22-24) offering wisdom and instruction to a "son" from a father figure. Immediately preceding Proverbs 23:22 are warnings against gluttony and associating with drunkards, and exhortations to buy truth and wisdom. Following it are further calls to bring joy to parents and to avoid immoral women. Thus, this admonition to honor parents is nestled within practical advice for living a righteous and disciplined life, underscoring parental guidance as foundational to these other virtues.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 19:26
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold, thy son!
- Proverbs 6:20
My son, keep the commandment of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:
- Proverbs 30:17
The eye that mocketh at his father, And despiseth to obey his mother, The ravens of the valley shall pick it out, And the young eagles shall eat it.
- Mark 7:10
For Moses said, Honor thy father and thy mother; and, He that speaketh evil of father or mother, let him die the death:
- Proverbs 1:8
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:
- Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
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