Deuteronomy 5:16

KJV

Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Honour {H3513} thy father {H1} and thy mother {H517}, as the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} hath commanded {H6680} thee; that thy days {H3117} may be prolonged {H748}, and that it may go well {H3190} with thee, in the land {H127} which the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430} giveth {H5414} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Honor your father and mother, as ADONAI your God ordered you to do, so that you will live long and have things go well with you in the land ADONAI your God is giving you.

Berean Standard Bible

Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

American Standard Version

Honor thy father and thy mother, as Jehovah thy God commanded thee; that thy days may be long, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which Jehovah thy God giveth thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 5:16 reiterates the fifth of the Ten Commandments, instructing the Israelites to honor their father and mother. This divine mandate is presented not merely as a social custom but as a foundational principle for covenant faithfulness, promising longevity and well-being in the land God is giving them. It underscores the vital role of the family unit in transmitting faith and maintaining societal order, linking filial respect directly to divine blessing and the flourishing of the community within the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 5:16 is situated within Moses' grand discourse to the new generation of Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before their entry into the Promised Land. This chapter specifically records Moses' re-delivery of the Ten Commandments, initially given at Mount Sinai in [Exodus 20](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments"). Moses emphasizes that these aren't new laws but a reaffirmation of the covenant stipulations that bind Israel to Yahweh. The preceding verses detail the first four commandments, focusing on Israel's exclusive devotion to God, while the subsequent verses (Deuteronomy 5:17-21) outline the remaining commandments concerning human relationships, demonstrating how proper worship of God necessarily translates into ethical conduct within the community. This specific commandment bridges the two tablets of the Law, serving as a pivotal link between one's vertical relationship with God and horizontal relationships within the family and society.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is crucial: Israel is poised to enter Canaan, a land inhabited by various pagan cultures. The emphasis on honoring parents was vital for maintaining the distinct identity and social fabric of Israel. In ancient Near Eastern societies, the family, or "house," was the fundamental unit of society, serving as the primary institution for education, economic activity, and religious instruction. Parental authority was paramount, extending throughout a person's life, not just childhood. Disrespect for parents was considered a grave offense, often punishable by severe means (cf. [Exodus 21:15](/exodus/21-15 "Exodus 21:15 - Striking or Cursing Parents"), [Leviticus 20:9](/leviticus/20-9 "Leviticus 20:9 - Cursing Parents")). The promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" was deeply tied to the covenantal promise of inheriting and flourishing in the land, a tangible blessing for a people about to establish a new nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes woven throughout Deuteronomy. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **covenant obedience and blessing**, where faithfulness to God's commands directly results in tangible benefits, particularly for the nation's well-being in the land (cf. [Deuteronomy 4:1](/deuteronomy/4-1 "Deuteronomy 4:1 - Obedience for Life")). Secondly, it highlights the **centrality of the family** as the primary unit for the transmission of faith and values across generations (cf. [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching the Commands to Children")). Thirdly, it underscores the **holistic nature of the Law**, demonstrating that true worship of Yahweh is not confined to ritual but permeates every aspect of life, including familial relationships. Finally, it speaks to the theme of **divine authority and human responsibility**, as the command is explicitly from "the LORD thy God," demanding a responsive and obedient posture from His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Honour (Hebrew, _kābēd'_):** This verb literally means "to be heavy," "to be weighty," or "to be glorious." In this context, it signifies recognizing and attributing proper "weight" or importance to one's parents. It implies treating them with respect, dignity, high esteem, and reverence, acknowledging their God-given authority and position. It goes beyond mere obedience to encompass a deep inward attitude of respect and outward acts of care and support, especially in their old age.
* **Prolonged (Hebrew, _’ārak'_):** Meaning "to be long" or "to lengthen." When applied to "days," it refers to a long life, often understood in the Old Testament as a sign of divine favor and blessing. In the context of the nation of Israel, it also implies the longevity and stability of the national presence in the Promised Land, avoiding premature exile or destruction due to disobedience.
* **Well with thee (Hebrew, _ṭôb lāk'_):** This phrase means "it will be good for you" or "it will go well with you." It encompasses a holistic sense of well-being, prosperity, peace, and flourishing. This is not just about material wealth but a comprehensive state of shalom, characterized by security, health, and contentment within the covenant relationship with God in the land He provides.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Honour thy father and thy mother":** This is the direct command, the fifth of the Ten Commandments, and the first with a specific promise attached. "Honour" (כָּבֵד, _kābēd_) denotes giving weight, respect, and dignity to parents, acknowledging their authority and role as God's representatives in the family. This respect involves obedience in childhood, care in old age, and a general attitude of esteem throughout life.
* **"as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee":** This clause emphasizes the divine origin and authority of the command. It is not a mere cultural custom or human tradition but a direct, non-negotiable mandate from Yahweh Himself. This elevates the command to a sacred duty, linking filial piety directly to one's obedience and reverence for God.
* **"that thy days may be prolonged":** This is the first part of the promised blessing. It refers to a long life, a highly valued blessing in ancient Israelite culture, often seen as a sign of God's favor and covenant faithfulness. For the nation, it also implies the longevity and stability of their presence in the Promised Land, avoiding premature judgment or exile.
* **"and that it may go well with thee":** This is the second part of the promise, signifying holistic well-being, prosperity, and flourishing. It encompasses peace, security, health, and general contentment. This is a comprehensive blessing for a life lived in accordance with God's will, ensuring a state of shalom for the obedient individual and community.
* **"in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.":** This final phrase grounds the promise specifically within the context of the covenant and the Promised Land. The blessings of prolonged life and well-being are directly tied to Israel's inheritance and flourishing in the land God has sovereignly bestowed upon them. It underscores that the covenant blessings are both spiritual and tangible, experienced within a specific geographical and communal context.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 5:16 effectively employs several **literary devices**. The most prominent is **Covenantal Formula**, where a command is followed by a promised blessing, establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship within the divine-human covenant. This structure is characteristic of ancient Near Eastern treaties, which Deuteronomy often echoes, reinforcing God's role as the sovereign King and Israel as His vassal. The use of **Repetition** is also key, as Moses reiterates the commandments first given in Exodus, emphasizing their enduring importance and ensuring the new generation fully grasps their significance. The phrase "the LORD thy God hath commanded thee" serves as a **Divine Mandate**, lending absolute authority to the instruction. Furthermore, the verse uses **Merism** through the dual promise of "prolonged days" and "it may go well with thee," encompassing the entirety of a blessed life – both its duration and its quality. This comprehensive blessing functions as a **Metonymy** for overall covenant faithfulness and flourishing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 5:16 establishes a foundational principle for both individual and national well-being, demonstrating that respect within the family unit is not merely a social nicety but a divine imperative with profound theological implications. It underscores God's design for order and authority, beginning within the home. The command to honor parents reflects the broader principle of honoring God Himself, as parents are seen as God's appointed authorities in the lives of their children. This commandment also highlights the concept of corporate responsibility and blessing: the stability of the family contributes directly to the stability and longevity of the nation in the Promised Land, illustrating how individual obedience contributes to communal flourishing under God's covenant. The promise attached to this command, "that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee," is a tangible demonstration of God's desire for His people's prosperity and shalom when they walk in His ways.

* [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Original Command to Honor Parents")
* [Ephesians 6:1-3](/ephesians/6-1-3 "Ephesians 6:1-3 - Paul's Exhortation to Children and Parents")
* [Proverbs 23:22](/proverbs/23-22 "Proverbs 23:22 - Listen to Your Parents")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The command to "Honour thy father and thy mother" transcends cultural boundaries and time, remaining a cornerstone for healthy families and societies. It calls us to a profound respect that acknowledges the God-given authority and dignity of our parents, extending beyond childhood obedience to lifelong care, appreciation, and seeking of their wisdom. This honor reflects our understanding of authority and our willingness to submit to God's ordained structures. While the promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" was initially tied to the land of Israel, its spiritual application for believers today points to a life characterized by peace, divine favor, and a sense of flourishing that comes from walking in obedience to God's commands. Honoring parents cultivates humility, gratitude, and a recognition of our heritage, fostering a legacy of faith and respect that can be passed down through generations. It reminds us that our relationships within the family are a primary arena for living out our faith and demonstrating the love and order of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can I demonstrate "honor" to my parents (or parental figures) in my current stage of life, beyond mere obedience?**
* **How does my attitude towards my parents reflect my understanding of God's authority in my life?**
* **What does "prolonged days" and "it may go well with thee" mean for me as a New Testament believer, considering both physical and spiritual flourishing?**
* **How can I contribute to fostering a culture of honor within my own family and community, especially concerning the elderly or those in authority?**

### FAQ

**Does "honor" mean I must always agree with my parents, even if they are wrong or abusive?**

Answer: The command to "honor" (כָּבֵד, _kābēd_) parents implies recognizing their inherent dignity and God-given authority, treating them with respect and care. However, it does not demand blind obedience or agreement, especially when parental commands contradict God's commands or when parents engage in abusive behavior. While the principle of honor remains, its expression must be balanced with wisdom, personal safety, and allegiance to Christ. In cases of abuse, seeking help and establishing healthy boundaries is not a violation of honor but a necessary step for well-being, as God also calls us to love our neighbor and protect the vulnerable (cf. [Proverbs 31:8-9](/proverbs/31-8-9 "Proverbs 31:8-9 - Speak Up for the Voiceless")). The New Testament clarifies that children are to obey parents "in the Lord" ([Ephesians 6:1](/ephesians/6-1 "Ephesians 6:1 - Children Obey Your Parents")), implying that obedience is conditioned by alignment with God's will.

**Is the promise of "prolonged days" and "well-being" a literal guarantee for everyone who honors their parents?**

Answer: The promise in Deuteronomy 5:16, "that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee," was primarily a covenantal promise to the nation of Israel. For individuals within Israel, it often meant a long and prosperous life in the Promised Land as a sign of God's favor for their obedience. While honoring parents generally contributes to a stable and healthy life, leading to greater longevity and well-being, it is not an absolute, unconditional guarantee for every individual in every circumstance. We live in a fallen world where sin and suffering exist. However, the principle remains: living in alignment with God's commands, including honoring parents, generally leads to a more blessed and flourishing life, both spiritually and often physically. The Apostle Paul reiterates this as "the first commandment with a promise" in [Ephesians 6:2](/ephesians/6-2 "Ephesians 6:2 - The First Commandment with a Promise"), indicating its enduring spiritual significance for believers.

**How does this command apply to adults whose parents are no longer living or are estranged?**

Answer: The command to honor parents extends beyond their physical presence or the immediate period of childhood. If parents have passed away, honor can be expressed by cherishing their memory, upholding their positive legacy, and continuing to live by the values they instilled (especially if those values align with God's Word). For estranged relationships, the principle of honor still calls for an attitude of respect, even if direct interaction is limited or impossible due to difficult circumstances. This might involve forgiveness, prayer, or a willingness to reconcile if healthy and safe. The core of honor is an internal disposition of respect and recognition of their God-given role, which can be maintained even when external circumstances prevent conventional expressions of honor. The New Testament's emphasis on love and reconciliation (e.g., [Matthew 5:23-24](/matthew/5-23-24 "Matthew 5:23-24 - Reconcile with Your Brother")) provides further guidance for navigating complex familial relationships.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 5:16, with its command to honor father and mother and its accompanying promise of prolonged life and well-being, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied filial piety, demonstrating perfect obedience to His earthly parents (cf. [Luke 2:51](/luke/2-51 "Luke 2:51 - Jesus' Obedience to His Parents")) and, supremely, to His heavenly Father, even to the point of death on a cross (cf. [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). His life of perfect obedience fulfills the Law's demands, including this commandment, and His death atones for humanity's failure to honor God and one another. Through Christ, believers are adopted into God's family, receiving the ultimate "prolonged days" – eternal life – and ultimate "well-being" – the abundant life in Him, not merely in a physical land but in the spiritual kingdom (cf. [John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Abundant Life")). The New Covenant transforms the promise from a temporal blessing in a physical land to an eternal inheritance in the new heavens and new earth (cf. [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")), secured by Christ's perfect obedience. Thus, honoring parents becomes an expression of our new life in Christ, reflecting the divine order and love that flows from our relationship with our Heavenly Father through His Son, who is the true source of all life and blessing.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 20:12

¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Colossians 3:20

Children, obey [your] parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

Ephesians 6:1

¶ Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Ephesians 6:3

That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

Deuteronomy 27:16

Cursed [be] he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Deuteronomy 4:40

Thou shalt keep therefore his statutes, and his commandments, which I command thee this day, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong [thy] days upon the earth, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, for ever.

Matthew 15:4

For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.