Proverbs 29:17

KJV

¶ Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.

KJV (with Strong's)

Correct {H3256} thy son {H1121}, and he shall give thee rest {H5117}; yea, he shall give {H5414} delight {H4574} unto thy soul {H5315}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will be your delight.

Berean Standard Bible

Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will bring delight to your soul.

American Standard Version

Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 29:17 offers a profound insight into the enduring benefits of diligent and wise parental discipline, promising a future of peace and deep satisfaction for parents who faithfully guide their children. It posits a direct correlation between the intentional correction of a child and the subsequent rest and delight experienced by the parent, highlighting the long-term spiritual and emotional rewards of responsible child-rearing within the covenant community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 29:17 is nestled within a larger collection of wise sayings in the book of Proverbs, specifically within a section (chapters 25-29) often attributed to "the proverbs of Solomon that the officials of Hezekiah king of Judah copied" ([Proverbs 25:1](/proverbs/25-1 "More Proverbs of Solomon")). This chapter, like many in Proverbs, juxtaposes the outcomes of wisdom and foolishness, righteousness and wickedness, often focusing on themes of governance, justice, and personal conduct. Immediately preceding this verse, [Proverbs 29:15](/proverbs/29-15 "The Rod of Correction") also speaks to the importance of the "rod and reproof" in imparting wisdom, setting a clear thematic stage for the specific instruction regarding a son in verse 17. The broader context of the book emphasizes that true wisdom (חָכְמָה, _chokhmah_) is rooted in the fear of the Lord and is practically applied in every sphere of life, including the family.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the family unit was the foundational pillar of society, serving as the primary institution for education, moral instruction, and the transmission of covenantal values. Children were seen as a heritage from the Lord ([Psalm 127:3](/psalm/127-3 "Children Are a Heritage from the Lord")), and parents bore the profound responsibility of raising them in the ways of God. Discipline, or "correction," was not merely punitive but formative, intended to shape character, instill moral rectitude, and prepare children for responsible participation in the community. This cultural emphasis on intergenerational instruction is evident throughout the Old Testament, from the commands of the [Deuteronomic law](/deuteronomy/6 "The Shema and Instructions for Living") to the prophetic calls for faithfulness. The "son" in this proverb is often understood broadly to include both male and female children, representing the next generation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent in the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it underscores the **necessity of discipline** as a loving and essential component of parental responsibility, not merely punishment but formative instruction that guides a child towards wisdom and away from folly (cf. [Proverbs 22:6](/proverbs/22-6 "Train Up a Child")). Secondly, it highlights the **principle of sowing and reaping**, where present effort in child-rearing yields future positive outcomes for the parent—specifically, "rest" and "delight." This theme of cause and effect is central to wisdom literature, demonstrating that righteous actions lead to beneficial consequences. Finally, it touches upon the **blessing of a well-ordered household**, where the proper upbringing of children contributes to the overall peace, honor, and joy of the family, reflecting a microcosm of a society living in accordance with divine wisdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Correct (Hebrew, _yâçar'_):** From H3256, this primitive root signifies "to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct." It encompasses a holistic approach to discipline, including teaching, admonition, training, and setting boundaries, often through various means, not solely punitive. The emphasis is on shaping character and imparting wisdom, steering the child towards righteousness.
* **Rest (Hebrew, _nûwach'_):** From H5117, this primitive root means "to rest, i.e. settle down." It describes a state of tranquility, peace, and freedom from turmoil or anxiety. In the context of parenting, it refers to the relief and quietude a parent experiences when their child is well-behaved, responsible, and not a source of constant worry or grief.
* **Delight (Hebrew, _maʻădân'_):** From H4574, this word denotes "a delicacy or (abstractly) pleasure." It speaks to a deep sense of satisfaction, joy, and gratification. For the parent, this is the profound emotional reward and fulfillment derived from seeing their child grow into a respectful, wise, and God-fearing individual, thriving as a result of their diligent upbringing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Correct thy son":** This is a direct imperative, a command to the parent. The term "correct" (_yâçar_) implies active, intentional, and comprehensive discipline that aims to instruct, train, and guide the child. It is a continuous process of shaping character, imparting wisdom, and setting boundaries, rather than merely punishing misbehavior. The "son" here represents the child, the next generation, whose character is entrusted to parental guidance.
* **"and he shall give thee rest":** This clause presents the immediate, tangible benefit of diligent correction. The "rest" (_nûwach_) signifies a state of tranquility, peace of mind, and freedom from the anxieties, troubles, and weariness that often accompany an undisciplined or wayward child. A child who has been properly guided is less likely to cause grief, shame, or constant worry to their parents.
* **"yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul":** This second clause amplifies and deepens the promised reward. Beyond mere "rest," the parent will experience "delight" (_maʻădân_)—a profound, soul-deep satisfaction and joy. This speaks to the immense fulfillment and pleasure a parent derives from seeing their child flourish, embodying wisdom and righteousness, and becoming a source of honor and blessing rather than sorrow. The "soul" (_nephesh_) here refers to the innermost being, highlighting the deep emotional and spiritual gratification.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 29:17 effectively employs **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first, rather than merely repeating it. The first clause, "Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest," establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship. The second clause, "yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul," then intensifies and enriches the promised outcome, moving beyond mere cessation of trouble ("rest") to a positive, profound emotional experience ("delight"). This structure emphasizes the dual, escalating benefits of faithful parenting. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Proverbial Maxim**, a concise, memorable statement of truth derived from observation and experience, offering practical wisdom for living. It also utilizes **Personification** indirectly, as the "son" is depicted as the active agent who "gives" rest and delight, underscoring the direct consequence of his upbringing on the parents' well-being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 29:17 integrates seamlessly into the broader biblical theology of divine order, parental responsibility, and the nature of wisdom. It reflects the understanding that God has established principles for human flourishing, and adherence to these principles, particularly in the family, yields blessings. The act of "correcting" a child mirrors God's own fatherly discipline, which is always for our good, to lead us to righteousness and peace. This verse underscores that true parental love is not permissive but involves firm, consistent, and loving guidance that shapes character and instills moral discernment. The promised "rest" and "delight" are not merely earthly rewards but a foretaste of the peace that comes from living in alignment with God's design, where the fruit of righteousness brings joy.

* [Proverbs 22:6](/proverbs/22-6 "Train Up a Child")
* [Proverbs 13:24](/proverbs/13-24 "He Who Spares the Rod Hates His Son")
* [Hebrews 12:7](/hebrews/12-7 "Endure Hardship as Discipline")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For parents and guardians today, Proverbs 29:17 serves as both a powerful encouragement and a vital reminder of the long-term vision inherent in child-rearing. It calls for intentional, consistent, and loving discipline that aims to instruct and shape a child's character, not merely to suppress undesirable behavior. This "correction" is a holistic process encompassing teaching, setting clear boundaries, administering consequences, and modeling godly living. The verse reassures parents that their diligent efforts, though often challenging and requiring immense patience, are not in vain. The "rest" it promises is freedom from the anxieties and heartaches that can arise from an undisciplined child, while the "delight" speaks to the profound, soul-deep joy of witnessing a child mature into a responsible, respectful, and God-fearing individual. This joy is a testament to God's faithfulness and the fruit of obedience to His wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I understand "correction" beyond mere punishment, encompassing instruction and character formation?**
* **How does the promise of "rest" and "delight" motivate my long-term approach to parenting or mentoring?**
* **What specific, intentional steps can I take this week to apply the principle of loving correction in my relationships with children or younger individuals?**

### FAQ

**Does "correct thy son" imply physical punishment is always necessary?**

Answer: While the Hebrew word _yâçar_ (H3256) can include physical discipline ("with blows"), its primary meaning is broader, signifying "to chastise... or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct." The emphasis is on shaping character and imparting wisdom, often through various means including verbal teaching, setting boundaries, and consequences. The Bible, particularly Proverbs, does acknowledge the "rod of correction" ([Proverbs 22:15](/proverbs/22-15 "The Rod of Correction")), but always within a context of love, instruction, and the ultimate goal of wisdom and righteousness, not abuse. Effective correction is holistic, adapting to the child's age and needs, always aimed at their spiritual and moral formation.

**What if I have corrected my child, but I don't feel "rest" or "delight"?**

Answer: The proverb presents a general principle and a divinely ordained outcome for diligent, wise parenting, not a guarantee of immediate or perfect results in every individual case. Factors such as a child's free will, external influences, and the parent's own consistency can impact outcomes. However, the promise remains a powerful encouragement to persevere in faithful instruction. Even if the full "rest" and "delight" are not yet realized, the act of correction itself is an act of love and obedience to God's Word, and parents can find peace in knowing they have fulfilled their God-given responsibility. Ultimately, true "rest" and "delight" are found in Christ alone, regardless of our circumstances ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 29:17, while offering practical wisdom for earthly parenting, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "correction" described here foreshadows the perfect, loving discipline of God the Father, who "disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness" ([Hebrews 12:10](/hebrews/12-10 "God's Discipline for Our Good")). Just as a wise parent corrects their son for future rest and delight, God's fatherly discipline, though it may seem painful at the time, ultimately yields "the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it" ([Hebrews 12:11](/hebrews/12-11 "The Peaceful Fruit of Righteousness")). The "rest" promised to parents in this proverb finds its ultimate reality in the spiritual rest offered by Christ to all who are weary and burdened ([Matthew 11:28-29](/matthew/11-28 "Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). He is the true source of soul-rest, freeing us from the burden of sin and the futility of self-effort. Furthermore, the "delight unto thy soul" that a parent experiences from a well-trained child points to the immeasurable delight God the Father has in His beloved Son, Jesus, who perfectly obeyed and fulfilled all righteousness ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "God's Delight in Jesus")). Through Christ, believers are adopted as sons and daughters of God, and our submission to His loving correction brings not only rest from our striving but also an eternal, unshakeable delight in our salvation, a joy that "no one will take from you" ([John 16:22](/john/16-22 "Your Joy No One Will Take From You")). Thus, the proverb's wisdom points beyond itself to the greater spiritual realities of God's redemptive plan in Christ.

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 29:15

¶ The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left [to himself] bringeth his mother to shame.

Proverbs 10:1

¶ The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son [is] the heaviness of his mother.

Proverbs 13:24

¶ He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

Proverbs 23:13

Withhold not correction from the child: for [if] thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.

Proverbs 23:14

Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

Proverbs 19:18

¶ Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

Proverbs 22:15

¶ Foolishness [is] bound in the heart of a child; [but] the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.