Proverbs 28:24

Translation
King James Version
¶ Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Whoso robbeth H1497 his father H1 or his mother H517, and saith H559, It is no transgression H6588; the same is the companion H2270 of a destroyer H376 H7843.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Whoever robs mother or father and says, "That's not a crime!"is comrade to the destroyer.
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Berean Standard Bible
He who robs his father or mother, saying, “It is not wrong,” is a companion to the man who destroys.
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American Standard Version
Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression, The same is the companion of a destroyer.
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World English Bible Messianic
Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, “It’s not wrong.” He is a partner with a destroyer.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Hee that robbeth his father and mother, and sayth, It is no transgression, is the companion of a man that destroyeth.
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Young's Literal Translation
Whoso is robbing his father, or his mother, And is saying, `It is not transgression,' A companion he is to a destroyer.
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See also
Proverbs 18:9Proverbs 19:26Matthew 15:4Matthew 15:6Proverbs 28:7Judges 17:2Proverbs 13:20
In the KJVVerse 17,221 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Proverbs 28:24 delivers a profound and severe indictment against the individual who exploits or defrauds their parents, especially when this egregious act is compounded by a defiant denial of wrongdoing. This proverb unmasks a deep moral depravity, asserting that such a person is fundamentally aligned with destructive forces, thereby underscoring the grave consequences of violating foundational familial duties and rejecting moral accountability. It highlights that actions undermining the very bedrock of society—the family—coupled with a hardened heart, inevitably lead to a path of ruin and association with those who tear down rather than build up.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Proverbs 28 is an integral part of the "Sayings of Solomon" (Proverbs 25-29), a collection rich in contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, and the enduring consequences of their respective paths. This chapter specifically addresses themes of justice, integrity, and the impact of one's character on society and family. Verse 24 is strategically positioned to spotlight a particularly heinous form of moral corruption, shifting the focus from broader societal concerns like oppression and bribery (as seen in Proverbs 28:16 and Proverbs 28:21) to the intimate and sacred sphere of the family. The proverb's condemnation of self-deception in the face of sin also resonates with the preceding verse, Proverbs 28:23, which commends honest rebuke as ultimately more beneficial than flattery, implicitly contrasting it with the defiant denial of wrongdoing found in verse 24.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, the family unit was the foundational pillar of society, serving as the primary locus for economic activity, social identity, and religious instruction. The command to honor one's parents was not merely a cultural custom but a divine imperative, enshrined as the fifth commandment in the Decalogue (Exodus 20:12). This honor encompassed profound respect, diligent care, and, crucially, financial support, particularly for elderly or vulnerable parents. To "rob" one's father or mother was therefore not merely a property crime but a profound betrayal of covenantal obligation, filial piety, and the very social order. Such an act would have been viewed with extreme abhorrence, as it directly undermined the fabric of community and defied a fundamental divine command. The added element of denying the transgression further compounds the offense, revealing a hardened heart akin to those who rebel against God's established moral order.
  • Key Themes: Proverbs 28:24 powerfully contributes to several key themes woven throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it emphatically underscores the sanctity of the family and the paramount importance of filial duty and respect. It highlights the severe consequences of violating this fundamental relationship. Secondly, the proverb exposes the perilous danger of self-deception and moral blindness, where an individual justifies their sin, thereby preventing repentance and perpetuating destructive behavior. This aligns with broader biblical warnings about the deceitfulness of the human heart and the need for truthfulness. Thirdly, it emphasizes the profound consequences of one's character and associations, asserting that those who commit such acts and defiantly deny them are intrinsically aligned with destructive forces. This resonates deeply with the recurring wisdom theme that bad company corrupts good character and that one's inner disposition shapes their outward relationships and destiny. Finally, it speaks to the nature of true wisdom versus folly, portraying the individual in this verse as utterly foolish, choosing a path that leads to ruin rather than blessing and life.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • robbeth (Hebrew, gâzal', H1497): This primitive root signifies "to pluck off," "to flay," "strip," or "rob." It often implies a violent, forceful, or oppressive taking, rather than subtle theft. In the context of parents, it emphasizes the aggressive and often cruel nature of the act, suggesting a stripping away of their rights, dignity, or possessions. This highlights the severity and predatory nature of the transgression, indicating a profound breach of trust and care.
  • transgression (Hebrew, peshaʻ', H6588): Derived from a root meaning "to revolt" or "to rebel," this term denotes a deliberate breaking of a covenant or law. It signifies a willful defiance of established moral and divine order, indicating that the act of robbing parents is not a mere mistake or oversight but a conscious and defiant act of rebellion against fundamental societal and divine norms. It points to a deep-seated rejection of accountability.
  • destroyer (Hebrew, shâchath', H7843): While the KJV translates "destroyer," the underlying Hebrew root (shâchath) means "to decay," "to ruin," or "to corrupt" (causatively). The noun form (as implied here for "destroyer" from H7843) refers to one who causes ruin, desolation, or corruption. To be the "companion" of such a person means sharing in this destructive character, actively participating in or condoning acts that bring ruin, whether to individuals, families, or society at large. It implies a character fundamentally oriented towards tearing down rather than building up.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Whoso robbeth his father or his mother": This initial clause identifies the specific, egregious act being condemned. It refers to the exploitation, theft, or defrauding of one's own parents, a direct violation of the foundational commandment to honor them. The explicit mention of both "father or his mother" underscores the universality of this sacred duty and the profound betrayal involved in violating it, highlighting the intimate and fundamental nature of the relationship being desecrated.
  • "and saith, [It is] no transgression": This crucial phrase exposes the accompanying moral blindness and self-deception. The individual not only commits the sin but also defiantly denies its sinful nature, asserting that their actions are permissible, justifiable, or not wrong. This reveals a hardened conscience, a refusal to acknowledge guilt, and a dangerous justification of evil, which prevents repentance and perpetuates the destructive cycle.
  • "the same [is] the companion of a destroyer": This final clause pronounces the severe consequence and character alignment of such an individual. To be a "companion" (Hebrew, châbêr, an associate or fellow) of a "destroyer" (one who corrupts or ruins) means that the person who exploits their parents and denies their sin shares the same destructive character and ultimate destiny as those who bring ruin upon others or themselves. Their actions are not merely self-serving; they are actively harmful and align them with forces that tear down rather than build up, indicating a profound moral corruption.

Literary Devices

Proverbs 28:24 employs several potent literary devices to convey its stark warning and underscore the severity of the sin. Juxtaposition is powerfully used to contrast the sacred duty of honoring parents with the heinous act of robbing them, a contrast amplified by the defiant denial of wrongdoing. This highlights the profound moral inversion at play. The proverb also utilizes Metonymy or Synecdoche in the phrase "companion of a destroyer," where the association implies not merely literal companionship but a shared character, mindset, and destiny. The individual, by their actions and self-justification, becomes akin to a destroyer, embodying the very spirit of corruption and ruin. Furthermore, the strong and definitive declaration of consequence ("the same is the companion of a destroyer") functions as a form of Aphorism, a concise statement of truth that carries significant moral weight and serves as a warning.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This proverb powerfully illustrates the interconnectedness of moral action, internal disposition, and spiritual consequence, revealing a profound theological truth about the nature of sin. The act described is not merely a legal or social infraction but a deep theological transgression against the divine order that established the family as a sacred institution and commanded filial honor. It reveals a heart hardened against both human and divine law, echoing the biblical principle that rebellion against human authority, especially parental, often mirrors a deeper rebellion against God Himself (Romans 13:1-2). The denial of sin, as highlighted in the proverb, is a particularly dangerous spiritual state, preventing repentance and aligning one with the forces of darkness and destruction. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that unacknowledged and unrepented sin leads to spiritual death and separation from God's life-giving presence, contrasting sharply with the path of wisdom that leads to life.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Proverbs 28:24 serves as a potent and enduring reminder of the profound importance of honoring and caring for our parents, not merely as a social custom but as a divine mandate with deep spiritual implications. This honor extends beyond financial provision to encompass emotional support, profound respect, and diligent protection, especially as parents age and may become increasingly vulnerable. The proverb also urgently challenges us to critically examine our own hearts, warning against the insidious danger of self-deception. When we commit wrong, whether against family members, friends, or strangers, the temptation to rationalize, minimize, or outright deny our sin is powerful. However, true wisdom, spiritual health, and genuine growth demand humility, a willingness to acknowledge our faults, and a readiness to seek repentance. To justify sin, particularly against those we are commanded to honor and protect, reveals a character that is fundamentally destructive, aligning us with forces that tear down rather than build up. This calls us to cultivate a tender conscience, quick to confess and repent, thereby preserving our relationships, fostering spiritual integrity, and ensuring our lives contribute to flourishing rather than decay.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what subtle or overt ways might I, at times, fail to honor or adequately care for my parents or other elderly and vulnerable individuals in my life?
  • Am I prone to rationalizing or justifying my own wrongdoings, especially when they involve those closest to me? How can I cultivate a more honest, humble, and repentant heart?
  • How do my actions, words, and attitudes align me with those who build up and foster life versus those who destroy and sow discord within my family, community, and the wider world?
  • What practical and intentional steps can I take today to ensure I am a consistent source of blessing, support, and honor, rather than a drain or a destructive force, in my most intimate relationships?

FAQ

What does "robbeth his father or his mother" mean beyond simple theft?

Answer: While it certainly includes financial theft or exploitation, the Hebrew word for "robbeth" (gâzal) often implies a forceful, violent, or oppressive taking, a stripping away of rights, dignity, or possessions. In the context of parents, this extends beyond mere material theft to encompass a broader range of abuses: emotional manipulation, taking advantage of their vulnerability or trust, neglecting their care while benefiting from their resources, or even undermining their authority and dignity. It represents a profound betrayal of the sacred trust inherent in the parent-child relationship, directly violating the foundational commandment to honor one's father and mother. It is not just a crime, but a deep moral and spiritual offense against the very fabric of family and society.

Why is denying the transgression so significant in this proverb?

Answer: Denying the transgression ("saith, It is no transgression") reveals a hardened heart and a profound moral blindness that is particularly dangerous. It signifies a refusal to acknowledge sin, which is the essential first step towards repentance, change, and reconciliation. Without recognition of wrongdoing, there can be no genuine sorrow for sin, no turning away from destructive behavior, and no restoration of broken relationships, whether with parents, community, or God. This self-deception perpetuates the destructive cycle and indicates a deep-seated rebellion against truth and righteousness. It's not merely an error in judgment but a deliberate rejection of accountability, aligning the individual with those who are fundamentally opposed to God's moral order, as seen in passages that speak of the deceitfulness of the human heart and the path of unrepentant sin.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Proverbs 28:24, with its stark warning about familial betrayal and the destructive nature of unrepentant sin, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "destroyer" described in the proverb represents the ultimate destructive force of sin and its author, Satan, who comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. In profound contrast, Jesus declared His mission was to give life, and life more abundantly. Where the proverb condemns those who exploit and deny, Christ perfectly honored His Father, demonstrating ultimate obedience and submission, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). He never denied sin but bore the full weight of humanity's transgressions—including the very acts of betrayal, exploitation, and self-justification that this proverb condemns—upon Himself. Through His sacrifice, Christ became the ultimate "companion" not of a destroyer, but of the Father, bringing reconciliation and restoration to all who believe. His redemptive work provides the only true escape from the destructive path, offering forgiveness for those who confess their sins and transforming hearts from self-deception to truth, enabling believers to live lives that genuinely honor God and others, thereby fulfilling the spirit of the Law, including the command to honor parents (Ephesians 6:1-3).

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Commentary on Proverbs 28 verse 24

24 ¶ Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.

As Christ shows the absurdity and wickedness of those children who think it is no duty, in some cases, to maintain their parents (Mat 15:5), so Solomon here shows the absurdity and wickedness of those who think it is no sin to rob their parents, either by force or secretly, by wheedling them or threatening them, or by wasting what they have, and (which is no better than robbing them) running into debt and leaving them to pay it. Now, 1. This is commonly made light of by untoward children; they say, "It is no transgression, for it will be our own shortly, our parents can well enough spare it, we have occasion for it, we cannot live as gentlemen upon the allowance our parents give us, it is too strait for us." With such excuses as these they endeavour to shift off the conviction. But, 2. How lightly soever an ungoverned youth makes of it, it is really a very great sin; he that does it is the companion of a destroyer, no better than a robber on the highway. What wickedness will he scruple to commit who will rob his own parents?

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verse 24. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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