Proverbs 23:22

Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

Hearken {H8085} unto thy father {H1} that begat {H3205} thee, and despise {H936} not thy mother {H517} when she is old {H2204}.

Listen to your father, who gave you life; and don't despise your mother when she gets old.

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old.

Commentary

Proverbs 23:22 delivers a profound and timeless admonition regarding the respect and honor due to parents, particularly as they age. It serves as a cornerstone of biblical wisdom concerning family relationships and intergenerational duty.

Context

This verse is part of a larger collection of "Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34), which are practical instructions for living a righteous and successful life. The book of Proverbs frequently emphasizes the importance of parental instruction as a path to wisdom and avoiding pitfalls. In ancient Israelite society, the family unit was central, and honoring one's parents was not just a moral duty but a foundational element of social order and spiritual obedience. This teaching is deeply rooted in the Ten Commandments, specifically the fifth, which promises longevity for those who honor their father and mother.

Key Themes

  • Filial Piety and Respect: The core message is an imperative to honor and obey parents. "Hearken unto thy father" implies not just listening, but active obedience and attentiveness to their counsel. This is a fundamental aspect of biblical teaching on family roles.
  • Care for the Elderly: The specific instruction "despise not thy mother when she is old" highlights the vulnerability of aging parents. It calls for continued love, care, and respect, even when they may no longer possess the strength or capabilities of their youth. This theme emphasizes the ongoing responsibility children have towards their parents.
  • Gratitude and Wisdom: This verse subtly conveys gratitude for the life and upbringing provided by parents. Their past efforts in raising and teaching their children warrant lifelong esteem and kindness. The wisdom imparted by parents is a valuable inheritance, as often stressed in Proverbs (e.g., Proverbs 4:1).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "hearken" is shama (ืฉึธืืžึทืข), which means much more than simply hearing a sound; it signifies listening with understanding, obeying, and giving diligent attention. It implies a willingness to receive and apply instruction. The word for "despise" is buz (ื‘ึผื•ึผื–), conveying a strong sense of scorn, disdain, or contempt. This prohibition against despising an aging mother underscores the severe moral offense of neglecting or disrespecting those who are vulnerable and have given so much.

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:22 remains profoundly relevant today. In societies where elderly individuals may sometimes be marginalized or overlooked, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of our ongoing responsibility to our parents. It encourages us to:

  • Value Parental Counsel: Actively seek and respect the wisdom and experience of our parents, even as adults. Their life experiences often provide invaluable guidance.
  • Provide Ongoing Care: Ensure our aging parents are treated with dignity, love, and practical support, understanding that their needs may change over time. This includes emotional, physical, and even financial support where necessary.
  • Cultivate Gratitude: Remember the sacrifices and love parents poured into our lives, fostering a spirit of lifelong appreciation rather than resentment or neglect.

The principle of honoring parents is reinforced throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament Law to the New Testament teachings of Paul (e.g., Ephesians 6:2-3), signifying its universal and enduring importance for spiritual and societal well-being.

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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 30:17

    The eye [that] mocketh at [his] father, and despiseth to obey [his] mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

  • Proverbs 1:8

    My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

  • Ephesians 6:1

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

  • Ephesians 6:2

    Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)

  • John 19:26

    When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

  • John 19:27

    Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own [home].

  • Proverbs 6:20

    ยถ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
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