Proverbs 28:7 kjv

Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

Proverbs 28:7 nkjv

Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, But a companion of gluttons shames his father.

Proverbs 28:7 niv

A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.

Proverbs 28:7 esv

The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.

Proverbs 28:7 nlt

Young people who obey the law are wise;
those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.

Proverbs 28 verses

Proverbs 28 7 Meaning

Proverbs 28:7 states, "Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons shames his father." This verse contrasts two types of sons and their resulting impact. One who actively adheres to divine instruction demonstrates practical wisdom and discernment, honoring his lineage. The other, through close association with undisciplined and indulgent individuals, brings disgrace and dishonor to his family name. The verse highlights that personal conduct and choice of company directly reflect upon one's character and familial reputation.

Proverbs 28 7 Context

Proverbs chapter 28 frequently contrasts the righteous and the wicked, exploring how their actions affect themselves, their families, and society. Themes of justice, wisdom, integrity, and diligence are prevalent. This verse fits within a larger collection of antithetical proverbs, highlighting the outcomes of divergent moral choices. In the ancient Near Eastern context, family honor and reputation were paramount. A son's conduct reflected directly on his father and the entire lineage. Keeping the "law" (Torah) referred to adherence to God's divine instructions, not just a legal code, encompassing moral, ethical, and spiritual wisdom. The "gluttons" (zollelim) were more than simply overeaters; they represented a dissolute, unrestrained, and often rebellious lifestyle characterized by wastefulness and drunkenness, leading to ruin and public disgrace, which stood in stark contrast to the disciplined life God's law advocated.

Proverbs 28 7 Word analysis

• Whoever keeps the law (שׁוֹמֵר תּוֹרָה, shomer Torah):
• Shomer (שׁוֹמֵר): Literally "to guard," "to keep watch over," "to observe diligently." It implies an active, intentional, and persistent adherence, not mere knowledge or occasional compliance. This individual treasures the law and lives by it.
• Torah (תּוֹרָה): Refers to divine instruction or teaching, specifically God's revealed will. It is much broader than just a set of legal rules, encompassing moral guidance, wisdom, and the covenant relationship. It points to a life lived in accordance with divine principles.
• is a discerning son (בֵּן מֵבִין, ben mevin):
• Ben (בֵּן): Son, but also indicates characteristic, belonging to a category, or a follower/disciple. Here, a son who genuinely embodies and lives out wisdom.
• Mevin (מֵבִין): "Understanding," "discerning," "intelligent," or "wise." It denotes practical wisdom, the ability to make sound judgments and distinguish right from wrong. This wisdom is gained through diligent adherence to the Torah.
• but a companion of gluttons (וְרֹעֶה זוֹלְלִים, ve'ro'eh zollelim):
• Ve'ro'eh (וְרֹעֶה): "And a companion," derived from a verb meaning "to shepherd" or "to pasture." It implies close association, deep fellowship, or leading one's life according to their ways, indicating that one's company profoundly shapes character.
• Zollelim (זוֹלְלִים): "Gluttons," but also signifies the wasteful, prodigal, and dissolute. It suggests lack of self-control, excessive indulgence (often linked with drunkenness in Proverbs), and a general pattern of living in self-gratification, squandering resources and opportunities. It stands as an archetype for folly and moral decay.
• shames his father (יְבַיֵּשׁ אָבִיו, yevayesh aviv):
• Yevayesh (יְבַיֵּשׁ): "To put to shame," "to disgrace," "to cause to be humiliated." In ancient societies, personal shame often extended to the entire family, affecting its reputation and social standing.
• Aviv (אָבִיו): "His father." This represents not just the biological parent but the entire family, its legacy, honor, and often the moral instruction received. The son's actions reflect upon the father's parenting and the family name.
• Words-group Analysis:
• "Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son": This phrase directly links active, continuous obedience to divine instruction (Torah) with the development of practical wisdom and discernment. This son embodies the positive outcome of faithful living and brings honor to his upbringing.
• "but a companion of gluttons shames his father": This contrasting phrase emphasizes the corrupting influence of close association with individuals lacking self-control and moral discipline. "Gluttons" symbolize riotous and destructive living, the consequences of which bring severe disgrace not only upon the individual but also upon their entire family. This highlights the powerful role of relationships in shaping character and reputation.

Proverbs 28 7 Bonus section

• The concept of "shame" (בושׁ, bosh) in the ancient Near East was a significant social deterrent. It could mean loss of respect, social ostracization, and economic disadvantage for the entire family.
• The description of "glutton" often appears alongside "drunkard" in wisdom literature (e.g., Pr 23:20-21, Deut 21:20), indicating a comprehensive lack of self-control and moral discipline leading to poverty and social ruin. This serves as a strong polemic against lifestyles of unrestrained hedonism.
• The proverb indirectly speaks to the effectiveness of parental training and upbringing; a son's adherence to "law" demonstrates good stewardship of his education, while a companion of "gluttons" implies a disregard for instilled values.
• The verse is not just about avoiding "bad people," but about the internal discipline and discernment gained through adherence to God's way that naturally steers one away from destructive company.

Proverbs 28 7 Commentary

Proverbs 28:7 is a foundational wisdom teaching that underscores the profound impact of one's choices, particularly concerning obedience and association, on personal character and family honor. A person who diligently adheres to God's law acquires true discernment and wisdom, distinguishing them as a "discerning son" who brings credit to his heritage. This indicates that genuine wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical, applied obedience. In stark contrast, those who choose intimate fellowship with "gluttons" — symbolic of individuals characterized by excess, indiscipline, and self-indulgence — inevitably absorb their detrimental ways. This association leads to shameful conduct, which, in a culture deeply rooted in familial reputation, brings profound dishonor and grief to one's father and the entire household. The verse serves as a powerful call to heed divine instruction and to guard against corrupting influences, as one's companions reflect upon and ultimately shape one's destiny and legacy.

Practical examples: A student who diligently studies the Scriptures and lives by its principles often makes wise academic and social choices, leading to good reputation and honoring their upbringing. Conversely, a youth who regularly joins companions known for reckless parties and neglecting responsibilities may fall into debt, fail in studies, and bring distress and embarrassment to their family.