Proverbs 23:15

KJV

My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

KJV (with Strong's)

My son {H1121}, if thine heart {H3820} be wise {H2449}, my heart {H3820} shall rejoice {H8055}, even mine {H589}.

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, if your heart is wise, then my own heart too is glad;

Berean Standard Bible

My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart will indeed rejoice.

American Standard Version

My son, if thy heart be wise, My heart will be glad, even mine:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:15 expresses the profound and personal joy a parent or mentor experiences when their child or disciple embraces and embodies wisdom. It highlights the deep satisfaction derived from witnessing the inner transformation and moral discernment of one who has received instruction, underscoring the relational reward of diligent teaching and the intrinsic value of a heart truly committed to understanding and living out truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the "words of the wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34), a collection of thirty sayings or instructions presented as a father's earnest counsel to his son. This section, like much of Proverbs, is didactic in nature, offering practical guidance for living a righteous and flourishing life. The recurring address "My son" (e.g., [Proverbs 23:19](/proverbs/23-19 "Proverbs 23:19 - Listen to Your Father"), [Proverbs 23:26](/proverbs/23-26 "Proverbs 23:26 - Give Me Your Heart")) establishes an intimate, familial tone, emphasizing the personal investment of the teacher in the pupil's moral and spiritual development. The immediate verses often deal with themes of self-control, avoiding gluttony, and seeking true riches, making the pursuit of internal wisdom a critical counterpoint to external temptations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society placed immense value on intergenerational transmission of wisdom and knowledge, particularly within the family unit. The father served as the primary educator, responsible for imparting not only practical skills but also moral and theological truths. Wisdom was not merely intellectual acumen but a holistic way of life, rooted in the covenant relationship with God. The "heart" in this context refers to the entire inner person—intellect, will, emotions, and conscience—making the cultivation of a wise heart central to one's identity and conduct within the community and before God. This emphasis aligns with the broader Deuteronomic call for parents to diligently teach their children God's commands ([Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently")).
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 23:15 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it reinforces the **supreme value of wisdom**, portraying it as the ultimate goal of instruction and the source of profound joy. Secondly, it highlights the **relational dynamic of discipleship**, where the teacher's joy is intrinsically linked to the student's spiritual growth. This mutual benefit underscores the communal aspect of wisdom, where individual flourishing contributes to the well-being and delight of others. Thirdly, the verse subtly emphasizes **internal transformation** over mere outward conformity, as true wisdom resides in the "heart," the core of one's being, aligning with the call to [guard one's heart above all else](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** This term (H1121) extends beyond a literal offspring to encompass a disciple, student, or anyone under the instruction of a mentor. It signifies a relationship of dependency, tutelage, and often, deep affection. The root meaning, "builder of the family name," implies that the son's character and actions reflect upon and contribute to the legacy of the one who instructs him, making the mentor's joy in the son's wisdom a validation of their investment and a continuation of their heritage.
* **heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** The Hebrew word (H3820) for "heart" is far more comprehensive than the English equivalent, representing the totality of the inner person. It is the seat of intellect, will, emotions, conscience, and moral character. When the "heart" is wise, it signifies not just intellectual understanding, but a deep, internal disposition towards discernment, sound judgment, and moral integrity that shapes one's entire being and actions. It is the core from which life's issues flow.
* **wise (Hebrew, _châkam'_):** This primitive root (H2449) means "to be wise in mind, word, or act." It denotes practical skill, shrewdness, and discernment, but in the biblical context, it primarily refers to a life lived in accordance with God's revealed truth. A "wise heart" is one that understands God's ways, makes righteous choices, and applies divine principles to daily living, leading to a flourishing and God-honoring life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My son,"**: This opening phrase establishes a tender, intimate, and authoritative tone. It is a direct address from a father or mentor to a beloved student, emphasizing the personal nature of the instruction and the deep relationship between the speaker and the hearer. It immediately sets the context as one of loving guidance rather than detached pronouncement.
* **"if thine heart be wise,"**: This is the conditional clause, setting the prerequisite for the joy that follows. The emphasis is on the "heart," signifying that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge or outward conformity, but an internal transformation—a deep-seated understanding and moral discernment that shapes one's character, choices, and entire disposition. It is a wisdom that permeates the core of one's being.
* **"my heart shall rejoice, even mine."**: This is the consequence clause, expressing the profound and deeply personal delight of the instructor. The repetition of "my heart" and the emphatic "even mine" underscores the intensity and authenticity of this joy. It is a joy that stems from seeing one's diligent instruction bear fruit, a validation of investment, and a celebration of the beloved's spiritual and moral maturity.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:15 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Direct Address** is immediately evident in "My son," which creates an intimate, personal, and authoritative tone, drawing the listener into a familial relationship with the speaker. The verse is structured as a **Conditional Clause** ("if... then..."), a common rhetorical device in wisdom literature to present cause and effect, highlighting the direct link between the son's wisdom and the father's joy. Furthermore, the use of "heart" (Hebrew: *leb*) is a form of **Metonymy**, where the "heart" stands for the entire inner person—intellect, will, emotions, and conscience. This emphasizes that the wisdom sought is not superficial but a deep, internal transformation. The repetition of "my heart" and the emphatic "even mine" also serve as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the profound and personal nature of the joy experienced by the instructor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 23:15 beautifully illustrates a core biblical truth: the profound joy experienced by those who invest in the spiritual growth of others, mirroring God's own delight in the wisdom and obedience of His children. Just as an earthly parent rejoices in a child's wise choices, so too does our Heavenly Father find pleasure in His people walking in discernment and righteousness. This verse connects human relational dynamics to divine principles, showing that wisdom is not merely an individual pursuit but a communal blessing, fostering joy and affirmation within the spiritual family. It underscores that true wisdom, rooted in God's truth, yields not only personal flourishing but also brings gladness to the heart of the one who has faithfully imparted that truth.

* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")
* [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart Above All Else")
* [Luke 15:7](/luke/15-7 "Luke 15:7 - Joy in Heaven Over One Sinner Who Repents")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:15 offers a profound encouragement for both mentors and those being discipled. For parents, teachers, and spiritual leaders, it serves as a powerful reminder that their diligent investment in nurturing wisdom and character in others is not in vain. The challenges of guiding and instructing can be immense, but this verse promises a unique and deeply fulfilling joy that transcends earthly rewards—a joy that springs from witnessing the genuine, internal transformation of a beloved one. It calls us to persevere in teaching, modeling, and praying for those under our care, trusting that the seeds of wisdom will bear fruit, bringing profound gladness to our hearts and, more importantly, to God's. For children and disciples, this verse highlights the significant impact their choices have on those who love and teach them. Embracing wisdom not only benefits them personally but also brings immense delight to their parents, mentors, and ultimately, to God Himself. It encourages a life of intentional pursuit of wisdom, knowing that such a life brings joy to the hearts of those who have poured into them.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for my "heart" to be wise, beyond just having intellectual knowledge?**
* **In what ways can I, as a parent or mentor, cultivate an environment where true wisdom can flourish in those I disciple?**
* **How does my pursuit of wisdom bring joy to God and to those who have invested in my spiritual growth?**
* **What specific steps can I take today to guard my heart and pursue genuine wisdom that brings delight to others?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "heart" in this proverb?**

Answer: In biblical thought, particularly in Proverbs, the "heart" (Hebrew: *leb*) is far more than just the seat of emotions. It represents the very core of a person's being—their intellect, will, conscience, and moral character. When the text speaks of a "wise heart," it refers to a deep, internal disposition towards understanding, discernment, and righteous living that shapes one's entire life. It's about genuine inner transformation, not just outward conformity or intellectual assent. This concept is foundational to understanding wisdom in the Old Testament, as seen in the call to [guard your heart above all else](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart").

**Does this verse only apply to biological parents and children?**

Answer: While the primary context is often understood as a father addressing his biological son, the wisdom literature frequently uses familial terms (like "my son") to describe the broader relationship between a mentor and a disciple. The principles of instruction, spiritual growth, and the joy derived from it extend to any relationship where a more mature individual is guiding a younger or less experienced one in the ways of truth and wisdom. This could include spiritual mentors, teachers, pastors, or even older siblings who are discipling others. The emphasis is on the relational investment and the resulting joy, which transcends strict biological ties.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom. While the earthly parent rejoices in the wisdom of their child, the Heavenly Father's ultimate joy is found in His Son, Jesus, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Wisdom is Hidden")). Jesus perfectly lived out a life of wisdom, always doing the will of the Father, and in Him, we are made wise unto salvation ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom and Righteousness")). The Father's declaration, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Declaration at Jesus' Baptism")), echoes the profound joy expressed in Proverbs 23:15, but on a cosmic scale. Furthermore, as believers, when our hearts are made wise through faith in Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we bring joy to the heart of God. Our spiritual growth and transformation into the likeness of Christ—a life of true wisdom—is the Father's delight, akin to the joy of the shepherd finding the lost sheep ([Luke 15:4-7](/luke/15-4-7 "Luke 15:4-7 - The Parable of the Lost Sheep")). Our wisdom is not self-generated but a gift from God, enabling us to live in a way that honors Him and brings Him ultimate joy.

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

Proverbs 23:24

The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise [child] shall have joy of him.

Proverbs 23:25

Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

2 John 1:4

I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

Proverbs 29:3

¶ Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth [his] substance.

3 John 1:3

¶ For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.

3 John 1:4

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Proverbs 4:1

¶ Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.