Proverbs 13:24 kjv

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

Proverbs 13:24 nkjv

He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

Proverbs 13:24 niv

Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

Proverbs 13:24 esv

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

Proverbs 13:24 nlt

Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children.
Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

Proverbs 13 verses

Proverbs 13 24 Meaning

Proverbs 13:24 teaches that neglecting to provide necessary correction and guidance to children is a severe disservice that equates to a lack of genuine love. Conversely, a parent who truly loves their children actively engages in discipline, which includes instruction, training, and corrective measures, to guide them toward wisdom and a well-formed character. The verse highlights that true parental love requires the sometimes difficult act of providing firm yet loving discipline for a child's long-term benefit and proper development.

Proverbs 13 24 Context

Proverbs chapter 13 focuses on the stark contrast between the wise and the foolish, providing practical insights for living a righteous and prosperous life according to God's wisdom. Within this larger theme, verse 24 specifically addresses parental responsibilities concerning child-rearing, highlighting the critical role of discipline in a child's moral formation. Historically and culturally, in ancient Israel, the family was the foundational unit of society, and parental authority, particularly that of the father, was paramount. Discipline, often involving physical correction along with verbal instruction and training, was understood as an essential aspect of love and responsible parenting, aimed at instilling wisdom and deterring folly from a young age. This perspective stood in contrast to indulgent or neglectful approaches common in some pagan cultures where children might be seen as mere property or easily cast aside.

Proverbs 13 24 Word analysis

• Whoever spares: From the Hebrew verb ḥośēḵ (חֹשֵׂךְ), meaning "to withhold," "to keep back," "to refrain from." It implies a conscious choice to not apply what is needed or due. In this context, it speaks of a deliberate act of omission in child-rearing.
• The rod: From the Hebrew word šēbeṭ (שֵׁבֶט). While it literally means a "rod," "staff," or "stick," it carries multiple layers of meaning beyond just a physical implement. It signifies authority (like a scepter for a ruler), guidance (a shepherd's staff guiding sheep, Ps 23:4), and correction. Here, it encompasses the full spectrum of a parent's corrective authority and methods. It represents the means of discipline.
• Hates: From the Hebrew verb śōnēʾ (שׂוֹנֵא), meaning "to hate," "to detest," "to abhor." This is a strong, definitive word. In biblical wisdom literature, "hate" is often used antithetically to "love," signifying not necessarily emotional malice, but a disregard for one's true well-being, or actions (or inactions) that lead to harmful consequences. Neglecting proper training is so detrimental that it is functionally equivalent to not loving them for their ultimate good.
• Their children: From the Hebrew word bēn (בֵּן), referring to one's offspring, both male and female. It emphasizes the direct parent-child relationship.
• But the one who loves: From the Hebrew verb ʾōhēḇ (אֹהֵב), meaning "to love," "to have affection for," "to like." This is presented in sharp contrast to "hates." Genuine love is active and demonstrative.
• Is careful to discipline them: From the Hebrew verb wĕyissĕrannû (וְיִסְּרֶנּוּ). The root yasar (יָסַר) is rich in meaning, encompassing "to admonish," "to correct," "to instruct," "to train," "to chasten," and "to educate." It signifies a comprehensive process of training, shaping, and correcting the character and behavior of a child, which can include various forms of instruction and, when necessary, firm corrective measures. This term points to the overall process of moral and spiritual formation.

Proverbs 13 24 Bonus section

The seemingly harsh language of "hates" highlights the severe consequence of parental permissiveness. It suggests that genuine love prioritizes the child's ultimate character and eternal destiny over temporary discomfort or conflict. This verse emphasizes that discipline is a proactive act of parental stewardship, vital for instilling self-control, respect, and wisdom. The goal is always restoration and righteous living, preventing children from becoming unruly, self-centered, and bringing shame to themselves and their families (Pro 29:15).

Proverbs 13 24 Commentary

Proverbs 13:24 forcefully communicates a central tenet of biblical child-rearing: true parental love necessitates purposeful discipline. The "rod" symbolizes all forms of corrective instruction and authority, not solely physical punishment, although physical correction could be one component. To "spare the rod" means to neglect the child's moral education, allowing folly and sinful tendencies to flourish unchecked. This neglect, paradoxically, is branded as "hate" because it ultimately harms the child's well-being and future. It speaks of a lack of commitment to their development. In contrast, active, consistent discipline born of love guides children towards righteousness and wisdom, mirroring God's own fatherly discipline (Heb 12:5-11). It ensures that children are not left to their own devices, which Pro 22:15 affirms are inclined towards folly, but are deliberately trained and prepared for a life honoring God.