Proverbs 6:20
My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This verse isn't just about obeying parents; it highlights that both father's commands and mother's teaching are vital sources of guidance. It subtly corrects the common tendency to value one parent's instruction over the other, emphasizing that a complete foundation for life comes from both.
This passage is part of a larger discourse warning against adultery and sexual immorality. The verses immediately preceding and following emphasize the destructive nature of such sins, portraying them as dangerous traps and paths leading to ruin. This verse calls on the "son" (representing any learner) to hold onto the foundational teachings of both parents as a vital defense against the seductions and dangers about to be described.
Why does this verse specifically mention both father and mother? What does this dual focus reveal about the source of true wisdom?
This verse, Proverbs 6:20, emphasizes the vital role of both parents in shaping a child's life.
A Unified Front
It's easy for children to sometimes dismiss one parent's words or give more weight to the other. However, this verse presents their instruction as a unified front. The father's 'commandment' and the mother's 'law' are not in opposition, but complementary.
Deeper than Rules
These aren't just arbitrary rules. The 'commandment' from the father and the 'law' from the mother represent the moral and ethical framework passed down through generations. They are the foundational teachings that guide a child's steps through life's complexities.
The verse speaks of parental teaching illuminating the path. How does this ancient wisdom act as a practical guide for navigating modern challenges?
The 'commandment' and 'law' from parents are presented not just as moral codes, but as essential tools for life.
Illumination in Darkness
Think of the world as often being dim or confusing. The instruction received from parents, when rooted in God's principles, acts like a 'lamp.' It clarifies the way forward, revealing right from wrong and showing the safer, more righteous path. This guidance is crucial, especially when facing temptations or difficult decisions.
Guidance Through Life
These teachings are meant to be internalized and carried continually. They are described as guiding your steps when you walk and offering counsel and comfort in all circumstances. This isn't just about avoiding trouble; it's about actively living a life that is pleasing to God and fruitful.
Understand the original words
mitswah · Hebrew Noun
A divinely inspired instruction or authoritative rule for living. It reflects the wisdom passed down from those in authority, reflecting God's own guidance.
torah · Hebrew Noun
Refers to the instruction, law, or wisdom imparted by parents to children. It is essential for the transmission of godly values and character from one generation to the next.
This passage echoes the idea of deeply embedding parental instruction, speaking of God's commandments being on one's heart and taught diligently to children.
Proverbs 1:8This verse directly parallels the sentiment, urging a son to 'hear the instruction of his father' and not to 'forsake the teaching of his mother,' reinforcing the foundational importance of family guidance.
Ephesians 6:1-3The New Testament continues this theme, highlighting that obedience to parents is not only right but is also the 'first commandment with a promise,' linking family respect to divine blessing.
Proverbs 22:6This verse speaks to the outcome and effectiveness of consistent parental teaching, suggesting that raising children in the right way leads to a future where they will not depart from it.
bensonProverbs 6:20: "My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:"
Proverbs 6:20-23 . Keep thy father’s commandment — So far as it is not contrary to God’s command. And forsake not the law of thy mother — Which children are too apt to despise. Bind them continually upon thy heart — Constantly remember and duly consider them; tie them about thy neck — See on Proverbs 1:9 ; Proverbs 3:3 . When thou goest, it shall lead thee — Namely, the law of God, which thy parents h…
clarkeProverbs 6:20: "My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:"
Keep thy father's commandment - See on Proverbs 1:8 (note).
This verse isn't just about obeying parents; it highlights that both father's commands and mother's teaching are vital sources of guidance. It subtly corrects the common tendency to value one parent's instruction over the other, emphasizing that a complete foundation for life comes from both.
This passage is part of a larger discourse warning against adultery and sexual immorality. The verses immediately preceding and following emphasize the destructive nature of such sins, portraying them as dangerous traps and paths leading to ruin. This verse calls on the "son" (representing any learner) to hold onto the foundational teachings of both parents as a vital defense against the seductions and dangers about to be described.
This passage is part of a larger discourse warning against adultery and sexual immorality. The verses immediately preceding and following emphasize the destructive nature of such sins, portraying them as dangerous traps and paths leading to ruin. This verse calls on the "son" (representing any learner) to hold onto the foundational teachings of both parents as a vital defense against the seductions and dangers about to be described.
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"My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching." — This verse isn't just about obeying parents; it highlights that both father's commands and mother's teaching are vital sources of guidance. It subtly corrects the common tendency to value one paren…
